The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp is hosting a prestigious exhibition entitled “In Your Wildest Dreams. Ensor Beyond Impressionism" as part of the 75th anniversary of James Ensor's death. This exhibition, which concludes the Ensor Year, focuses on Ensor's fascination with masks, skeletons, and caricatures—elements he used to express his non-conformism and frustrations. Additionally, it delves into the significant influence of popular culture on his work, particularly his inspiration from puppet theater and magic lantern shows.

The exhibition showcases how Ensor's art was deeply intertwined with the cultural landscape of his time, reflecting the social and political upheavals, technological innovations, and mass spectacles that characterized the late 19th century. By highlighting this symbiotic relationship, the exhibition reveals how Ensor's imaginative visions were not only a product of his artistic genius but also a response to the popular entertainment and visual culture that permeated everyday life.

As part of the exhibition, Ditmar Bollaert has provided an installation featuring a chamber theater with continuous video projection, further immersing visitors in the world that inspired Ensor. Additionally, several live performances are scheduled, offering a dynamic exploration of the themes that shaped Ensor's work:

THURSDAY EVENING, 21 NOVEMBER, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00: Join us during KMSKA LATE for a series of consecutive short performances.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON, 24 NOVEMBER, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00: Combine your visit to the exhibition with a unique light theatre experience.

For more information, visit the KMSKA website: Ensornacht and Dag van de Wetenschap