Starting on 28 September 2024, Antwerp will host a series of fascinating exhibitions to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the death of James Ensor, one of Belgium’s most innovative and influential artists. This "Ensor Year" includes four simultaneous exhibitions at major cultural venues across the city, each exploring different facets of Ensor’s life and work.

  • "In Your Wildest Dreams" at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), will delve into Ensor's imaginative world beyond Impressionism, showcasing his groundbreaking work alongside masterpieces from renowned artists such as Manet and Munch.
  • The Museum Plantin-Moretus will present "Ensor’s States of Imagination", focusing on his experimentation with etching and printmaking techniques during his early career.
  • FoMu (Photo Museum Antwerp) will feature a special exhibition linking Ensor’s themes of masquerade and identity with the work of contemporary American photographer Cindy Sherman.
  • Lastly, MoMu (Fashion Museum Antwerp) will explore the themes of "Masquerade, Make-up & Ensor", drawing parallels between Ensor’s fascination with masks and the contemporary beauty industry.

These exhibitions provide a unique opportunity to dive deep into Ensor’s world, offering a blend of historical context and contemporary interpretations that make his work as relevant today as ever​.

Combine your Ensor experience with a stay at the Hyllit Hotel in Antwerp

To fully experience the James Ensor exhibitions in Antwerp, consider staying at the centrally located Hyllit Hotel. Situated just steps away from the city's major cultural hotspots, including the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the hotel offers luxurious accommodations and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

After a day of immersing yourself in Ensor’s visionary world, you can relax in the hotel’s Health & Leisure Center or dine in style at the rooftop Italian restaurant, Gran Duca. Hyllit Hotel is the perfect base for art lovers looking to explore Antwerp’s rich cultural offerings while enjoying comfort and elegance. Book your stay here.