ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Dépendance, Maverick Brussels Gallery, Closes After 23 Years

institutional · 2026-06-11

Dépendance, a notable contemporary art gallery in Brussels, is set to close its doors after 23 years of operation. Established in 2003 by Michael Callies and Stephan Jaax, the venue showcased the work of about 30 different artists including Josef Strau and Ed Atkins. It was affiliated with Frankfurt's Städelschule, where Callies trained. The gallery participated annually in several art fairs, emphasizing creativity over profit. In 2024, it will host a concluding project, featuring exhibitions by ReschWilleit and Alexandra Metcalf. Administrative functions will continue until August 2026, marking the end of an influential era in the local art scene.

Key facts

  • Dépendance closes after 23 years.
  • Founded in 2003 by Michael Callies and Stephan Jaax.
  • Operated a single location in Brussels.
  • Represented about 30 artists including Josef Strau, Ed Atkins, Allison Katz, Oscar Tuazon, and Jana Euler.
  • Program tied to Städelschule in Frankfurt.
  • Participated in five or six art fairs per year.
  • Opened project space View in 2024; final shows close June 27.
  • Gallery reachable until August 2026 for inquiries.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

Locations

  • Brussels
  • Belgium
  • Frankfurt
  • Germany
  • Berlin
  • London
  • Venice
  • Italy
  • Münster
  • Kassel
  • New York
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Amsterdam
  • Netherlands

Sources