Jean Brusselmans (1884–1953) is one of Belgium’s most idiosyncratic painters. In his practice, situated at the intersection of tradition and modernity, he attempted to organise the chaotic reality of everyday life into clear and carefully considered compositions. Balancing between figuration and abstraction, Brusselmans tirelessly sought the essence of things. In doing so, he developed a unique visual language that defies any single artistic movement and gives reality a new, surprisingly modern form.
This book offers a comprehensive overview of his career, from the First World War to his death in the early 1950s, through 120 works – paintings, drawings and prints – including masterpieces from major Belgian museum collections and private collections.
Furthermore, his work is placed in dialogue with some of his contemporaries – Gustave De Smet, James Ensor, Fernand Léger, Piet Mondrian, Giorgio Morandi, Constant Permeke and Rik Wouters. In this way, the book sheds new light on Brusselmans’ place within the major art movements of the early twentieth century.
With an introduction by Ann Geeraerts, curator of the exhibition, texts by Kurt De Boodt, Eric Min, Francisca Vandepitte, and an interview with the contemporary artist Kristof Santy.
Published by Bozar Books & Mercatorfonds, 2026
Two separate versions in Dutch and French
Hardcover
208 pages
29 x 23 cm
Retail price: € 44,50
Available at the Bozar Bookshop by Walther König or distributed by www.mercatorfonds.be
