Brussels takes centre stage in Cologne art exhibition

A new exhibition at the Kölnischer Kunstverein in Cologne puts Brussels and its chaotic energy in the spotlight.

Eine Stadt als Atelier (“A City as a Studio”) opens on 21 May and runs until 19 July 2026. More than 30 artists with strong links to Brussels present around 80 works exploring how the city shapes artistic life.

Artists featured include Sammy Baloji, Kasper Bosmans, Hana Miletić, Walter Swennen and filmmaker Chantal Akerman.

The exhibition focuses on Brussels’ unfinished and improvised character, from patched-up buildings and taped car bumpers to its complex political system. Curators Fabian Flückiger and Valérie Knoll say the city’s disorder creates freedom and creativity rather than holding artists back.

Kasper Bosmans’ 'Legend: Eine Stadt als Atelier' for Kölnischer Kunstverein © Kasper Bosmans, 2026 | 'Legend: Eine Stadt als Atelier' by Kasper Bosmans© Kölnischer Kunstverein - Werk van Hana Miletic

“Brussels often works through improvisation and temporary solutions,” said Flückiger to Bruzz. “That incompleteness and complexity also flow into the art created here.”

Several works reflect the city’s rough but lively atmosphere. Miletić presents textile pieces inspired by temporary street repairs she photographed around Brussels. Bosmans created a new installation using the red and green colours of the City of Brussels, with references to the Atomium, parakeets and the famous Brussels street dog, Zinneke.

The exhibition will travel to Brussels in spring 2027 before continuing to Beijing.

^{'Matonge-Brussels, Porte de Namur !
Porte de l‘Amour ?' by Chéri Samba © Brussels Heritage}