In 2021, Composite Presence was on show at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The presentation by Bovenbouw Architectuur was very well received there and is now coming to Belgium for the first time. In Z33, a life-size model of fifty buildings exposes the friction between city and architecture.
How do we design the city together? That question was the starting point for Bovenbouw Architectuur for this exhibition. Visitors walk through a fictional, but at the same time very recognisable Flemish urban environment. The model landscape shows the unique relationship between city and architecture in Flanders and Brussels. It especially emphasises the complexity of that relationship. The fifty projects are brought together in a jumble of historical, classical and modern buildings. Each has its own interpretation, function and idea of architecture. From churches and social housing to primary schools: they seem to have been plucked out of a random Flemish city.
Despite their differences, they stand side by side in harmony. Together, the buildings create a varied landscape, where a lot is possible and allowed. Yet they are consistent in all their diversity: the entire scene does not look messy or chaotic, but rich, hybrid and diverse. The staged landscape mainly shows how historical layers, formal particularities and unforeseen collisions are an endless source of inspiration for contemporary architecture.
Internationally, the high quality of architecture in Flanders and Brussels is appreciated. Where we once bore the name ugliest country, there is now fertile ground for various architectural projects. This is the result of a longstanding policy with attention to quality chambers and public tenders.
On Saturday 1 October, Z33 opens its autumn programme with the festive opening of three exhibitions, including Composite Presence. With performances combining dance, movement and image, it promises to be a fascinating evening.
The programme starts at 20:00h with a welcome speech by artistic director Adinda Van Gesytelen and an introduction by the curators.
Between 20:30h and 22:00, you can visit the exhibitions Fitting In, Elias Gekhiere and Composite Presence. The evening will end with a DJ set.
02.10.2022 - 12.02.2023
01.10.2022
More information
Z33 – Huis voor Actuele Kunst, Design & Architectuur
Bonnefantenstraat 1
3500 Hasselt
België
Bovenbouw Architectuur
Flanders Architecture Institute and Z33
the Flemish Community
Vlaams Bouwmeester, Stadsbouwmeester Antwerpen and Stadsbouwmeester Gent
The Flanders Architecture Institute is commissioner of Composite Presence, the Belgian contribution to the Biennale Architettura 2021 in Venice. The exhibition, curated by Bovenbouw Architectuur, shows a model landscape representing the friction between city and architecture in Flanders.
