Brussels showcases its history of Art Nouveau and Art Deco in BANAD festival
Brussels, the birthplace of Art Nouveau, will host the eighth edition of the BANAD festival from Saturday. The festival's theme of 2024 is "half and half", as the city showcases both Art Nouveau and its artistic successor, Art Deco. Approximately 60 architectural gems will open their usually closed doors for three weekends in March.
Private mansions, schools and other feats of architecture in Brussels will give visitors an insight into the city's rich heritage of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The tour will begin in the south with visits to Saint-Gilles and Watermael-Boitsfort on Saturday and Sunday. The subsequent two weekends of March are dedicated to the western and eastern sides of the capital.
Public debuts
Seven buildings on the excursion will join the festival for the first time, offering a glimpse into an opulent architectural past, including Maison Roosenboom in Ixelles. Neglected for years, this structure from 1900 is still in the process of restoration following a private purchase. The varnish and intricate woodwork are ready for their tour debut and the ornate decorations will follow.
The Hôtel Danckaert and its innovative wood veneer technique, imported from the US in 1922, is another of these seven gems. Behind its somewhat austere façade lies woodwork, stained glass windows, original furniture and a mosaic.
© EXPLORE BRUSSELS
"Art Nouveau was a very short art movement, a sort of shooting star in the art and architectural history," says Isabelle Vanderhoeven, a tour guide for the BANAD festival. She describes the movement in three words: "Nature, light and enthusiasm."
The Art Nouveau style emerged at the end of the 19th century in opposition to the Eclectic style. It was characterised by its curved lines, rhythmic designs, plays of colour, attention to detail and creativity. The three most significant leaders of Art Nouveau were the Belgians Victor Horta, Henry van de Velde and Paul Hankar.
Following the Art Nouveau movement came the early 20th-century style, Art Deco. Representing a complete stylistic shift from its predecessor, Art Deco opted for straight lines, geometric shapes and emphasis on volume.
The BANAD festival offers guided walks, cycle tours, lectures and other activities in Dutch, French and English. Some activities are accessible to people with physical or mental disabilities.
© PHOTO BELGIAN FREELANCE
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