Galerie: De Zwarte Panter, Antwerp

Discover the Oldest Active Gallery in Flanders: Galerie: De Zwarte Panter, Antwerp

If you're an art lover visiting Antwerp, there's one place you simply cannot miss: Galerie: De Zwarte Panter (The Black Panther). Established in 1970, this iconic art gallery has become a true monument and the oldest active gallery in Flanders. Located in the heart of Antwerp's old town, it has been a magnet for artists, musicians, writers, and art enthusiasts for over five decades.

A Rich History and Vibrant Present

Galerie: De Zwarte Panter was founded by Adriaan Raemdonck, a student at the academy, on December 5, 1968. Initially, it operated in various locations before finding its permanent home in the chapel space of the former Sint-Julianusgasthuis on Hoogstraat in Antwerp in 1970. Since then, the gallery has hosted around 500 exhibitions, 150 book presentations, and numerous film and concert evenings.

A Hub for Artistic Expression

The gallery showcases both changing and permanent exhibitions, with renowned artists like Fred Bervoets being featured. It's not just a space for visual arts; Galerie: De Zwarte Panter also hosts book launches, film screenings, concerts, and poetry readings. This vibrant mix of artistic expressions makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking cultural enrichment.

The Artistic Vision of Dr. Hugo Heyrman

One of the upcoming exhibitions at Galerie: De Zwarte Panter is "De poreuze grenzen van de realiteit" (The Porous Borders of Reality) by Dr. Hugo Heyrman. Opening on September 16, 2023, this exhibition explores Heyrman's existential engagement with the fragility of contemporary life. Through his paintings, Heyrman reflects on the city, the streets, and the human emotions, gestures, and postures that shape our society.

The Power of Painting as a Medium

Dr. Hugo Heyrman's artistic journey spans over half a century, during which he continuously pushed the boundaries of painting. Each new canvas is an experimental experience in the use of painterly fiction and freedom. His works blur the lines between reality, memory, and imagination, inviting viewers to engage in a reflective perspective on the world around them.

Unveiling the Mystery of Reality

Heyrman's paintings are reflections of individual consciousness, revealing the interconnectedness and interactions between things. They offer an "intermedia" perspective, bridging different forms of media. These sensitive crossovers intensify our gaze, bringing us closer to the enigmatic nature of reality. Through his art, Heyrman captures the essence of temporal dynamics, atmospheric shifts, and the ever-changing nature of our surroundings.

Plan Your Visit

To experience the magic of Galerie: De Zwarte Panter, make sure to plan your visit accordingly. The exhibition "De poreuze grenzen van de realiteit" will be open from September 17 to November 5, 2023. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Antwerp is a city known for its rich artistic heritage, and Galerie: De Zwarte Panter stands as a testament to this cultural legacy. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about exploring the vibrant art scene, a visit to this historic gallery is sure to leave a lasting impression.