Nestled in the heart of Brussels, Keitelman Gallery has been a driving force in the city’s vibrant art scene for over half a century. Founded in 1964 by Maurice Keitelman, this esteemed gallery has played a pivotal role in introducing groundbreaking contemporary art to Belgium and fostering the careers of numerous influential artists. From its early days showcasing graffiti art by Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring to its current diverse roster of international talents, Keitelman Gallery has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventional artistic norms.
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ContactA Trailblazing Legacy
Maurice Keitelman’s vision for the gallery was rooted in a deep appreciation for avant-garde art movements and a commitment to promoting emerging artists. In the 1960s and 70s, when the art world was dominated by traditional styles, Keitelman Gallery boldly embraced the raw energy and unconventional aesthetics of graffiti art, becoming one of the first European galleries to exhibit works by Basquiat and Haring .
This daring move not only introduced Belgian audiences to a new form of artistic expression but also helped launch the careers of these now-iconic artists. Keitelman’s unwavering support for their work during a time when it was largely dismissed by the mainstream art establishment was instrumental in their eventual recognition and success.
Championing Diverse Voices
Over the years, Keitelman Gallery has remained steadfast in its commitment to promoting diverse artistic voices and perspectives. The gallery’s roster has consistently featured artists from various cultural backgrounds, challenging traditional notions of what constitutes “high art” and expanding the boundaries of contemporary art discourse.
One notable example is the gallery’s long-standing representation of Russian-American artist Evsa Model. A pioneer of geometric abstraction, Model’s vibrant and minimalist works from the 1950s and 60s were a stark contrast to the prevailing artistic trends of the time [2]. Keitelman Gallery’s unwavering support for Model’s unique vision played a crucial role in introducing his work to a wider audience and solidifying his place in art history.
Fostering Emerging Talent
In addition to championing established artists, Keitelman Gallery has been a nurturing force for emerging talent. The gallery’s keen eye for identifying and cultivating promising artists has contributed to the success of numerous careers, including that of American conceptual artist Robin Winters.
Winters, known for his thought-provoking installations and drawings, had his first solo exhibition at Keitelman Gallery in 1986 [3]. This pivotal show not only introduced his work to the European art scene but also marked the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship with the gallery, which has continued to support and exhibit his work over the years.
Expanding Horizons
Keitelman Gallery’s influence extends far beyond the confines of Brussels. The gallery has been a regular participant in prestigious international art fairs, such as TEFAF in Maastricht and Art Brussels, providing a platform for its artists to reach a global audience.
At the 28th edition of TEFAF in 2015, the gallery made headlines with its exceptional presentation of works by Marcel Broodthaers, including the iconic “Two Marilyns” from 1964-65 [13]. This exhibition not only showcased the gallery’s commitment to showcasing significant works by influential artists but also highlighted its role in preserving and promoting Belgium’s rich artistic heritage.
Nurturing Artistic Discourse
Beyond its exhibition program, Keitelman Gallery has played a vital role in fostering artistic discourse and education in Brussels. The gallery has hosted numerous talks, lectures, and workshops, providing a platform for artists, curators, and scholars to engage in critical discussions and share their insights with the local community.
One notable example is the gallery’s collaboration with renowned street photographer Lisette Model in the 1980s. Model, whose candid and intimate portraits of everyday life in New York City had a profound influence on photographers like Diane Arbus, held a solo exhibition at Keitelman Gallery in 1986 [4][7]. The gallery’s decision to showcase Model’s work not only introduced Belgian audiences to her groundbreaking approach but also facilitated a deeper understanding and appreciation of street photography as an art form.
Contemporary Voices
Today, under the leadership of Avi Keitelman, the gallery continues to push boundaries and showcase cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world. The gallery’s current roster includes artists like Mounir Fatmi, whose multidisciplinary works explore themes of identity, language, and cultural exchange.
Fatmi’s 2013 exhibition “Intranquillités” at Keitelman Gallery was a powerful testament to the artist’s ability to blend diverse cultural references and mediums [6]. From calligraphic works on canvas to sculptural installations incorporating everyday objects, Fatmi’s pieces challenged viewers to confront their own preconceptions and engage with complex sociopolitical issues.
Conclusion
For over five decades, Keitelman Gallery has been a driving force in the Brussels art scene, championing groundbreaking artists, fostering emerging talent, and facilitating critical discourse. From its trailblazing embrace of graffiti art in the 1960s to its ongoing support for contemporary voices, the gallery has consistently challenged conventional artistic norms and expanded the boundaries of what is considered “art.”
As it continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the art world, Keitelman Gallery remains a beacon of innovation and a vital platform for artists to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of creative expression. Its unwavering commitment to promoting diverse voices and fostering artistic dialogue has cemented its place as a cultural institution in Brussels and beyond [9][10][11].
Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brussels_Gallery_Weekend [2] https://www.russianartandculture.com/article-going-russian-in-brussels-brafa-art-fair-makes-late-january-a-cool-time-to-visit-the-belgian-capital-by-simon-hewitt/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Winters [4] https://photographmag.com/looking-back/charles-traub/ [5] https://www.tate.org.uk/tate-etc/issue-39-spring-2017/human-body-always-changing-always-same [6] https://www.keitelmangallery.com/keitelmangallery/worksMounirFatmi.html [7] https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-pioneering-street-photographer-taught-diane-arbus [8] https://www.invaluable.com/artist/mach-david-fc3s7dx3hf/sold-at-auction-prices/ [9] https://www.keitelmangallery.com [10] https://www.keitelmangallery.com/keitelmangallery/past.html [11] https://www.keitelmangallery.com/keitelmangallery/about.html [12] https://21stgallery.com/artists/jean-de-piepape/ [13] https://www.artforum.com/columns/julian-elias-bronner-at-the-28th-edition-of-tefaf-223600/ [14] https://www.artsy.net/artwork/roy-lichtenstein-lighting-bolt-banner [15] https://www.moma.org/collection/works/57207 [16] https://www.curatedartwork.com/viewing-room/ [17] https://www.moma.org/collection/works/57893 [18] https://www.moma.org/collection/works/57884 [19] https://news.artnet.com/market/artnet-asks-james-brown-138160