Kanal-Centre Pompidou Bruxelles: preview exhibition opens in former Citroën garage

On May 5, 2018, the Kanal-Centre Pompidou in Brussels inaugurated its 'année de préfiguration' with the 'Kanal Brut' exhibition, offering a glimpse into the future museum located in the former Citroën garage. This year of transition will host various shows, concerts, and performances leading up to the grand opening in 2022. A collaboration agreement between the Centre Pompidou and local authorities was established on December 27, 2017. The preview budget amounts to €1.2 million, while the total renovation is projected at €125 million, funded by the Brussels-Capital Region, which will allocate €2 million each year for operational costs. The building, designed in 1933, was acquired in October 2015, with renovation efforts spearheaded by noAarchitecten, EM2N, and Sergison-Bates. The exhibition showcases works from multiple artists, including a segment named 'Station to Station.' Controversies have arisen regarding Flemish fears of cultural colonization and Walloon aspirations for francophone representation.