Dirk Braeckman prepares Belgian pavilion for 2017 Venice Biennale with new installation

Dirk Braeckman will present his work in the Belgian pavilion at the 2017 Venice Biennale, running from 13 May to 26 November. The exhibition features approximately twenty pieces, blending new creations with existing works to form a cohesive installation. Curator Eva Wittocx collaborated with Braeckman on the presentation, which aims for a powerful yet solemn atmosphere within the recently restored pavilion located in the Giardini. Braeckman views this opportunity as a midcareer milestone, arriving at an ideal moment in his artistic development. He emphasizes that his participation is not about national representation but rather about reaching an international audience. The artist has attended the Biennale about ten times previously, including a visit in the mid-1990s when he participated in an architecture exhibition at the Belgian pavilion hosted by OFFICE, involving Kersten Geers and David Van Severen. Braeckman looks forward to feedback from diverse visitors, including curators, critics, and the general public, while also anticipating exploring Venice's churches and historic buildings away from the crowds.