Situated in Ixelles, the Blan Foundation is a new frontier for contemporary art. Founded by Thomas de Wouters, it offers a fresh perspective on contemporary art, emphasizing aesthetics and critical thinking. Today, the Blan Foundation presents en exhibition about Lionel Vinche.
Lionel Vinche, born in Belgium in 1936, started as a sailor before diving into the world of theater. Amidst his dramatic pursuits, he discovered his passion for drawing, which eventually led him to embrace painting. Despite a brief stint in art school, Vinche’s unique style emerged from his inability to conform to traditional techniques.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Chagall, and Picasso, his early works leaned towards abstraction. In the 1970s, he contributed to the resurgence of figurative painting, crafting mysterious and emotionally charged compositions. The 1980s saw a shift to denser, almost abstract forms, before returning to simplified, dreamlike figurative art.
Words were images to Lionel Vinche. His paintings told stories, often accompanied by whimsical titles. His art served as a canvas for his rich inner world, a visual journal of his exuberant daily life.
The Blan Foundation, in partnership with Chantal Bauwens, celebrates this Belgian artist’s journey through an exhibition showcasing his work from its inception to his later years. Private collectors contribute some pieces for the first time, highlighting Vinche’s enduring influence. This exhibition aims to cast aside labels and offer a glimpse into his unique artistic evolution.
A Tribute to Lionel Vinche
Lionel Vinche dedicated six decades to art, leaving a significant legacy. The Blan Foundation’s desire to honor this Belgian artist arises from encounters between the artist and Thomas de Wouters, the foundation’s founder, who collected Vinche’s works. The foundation aspires to showcase the distinctiveness of Vinche’s work through an exhibition featuring pieces from every phase of his life. This marks the first step towards a more comprehensive retrospective.
The Blan Foundation’s exhibition on Lionel Vinche promises an intimate exploration of an artist’s lifelong journey. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of a maverick talent who defied convention, remaining true to his artistic vision throughout his life.
