The Horta Museum in Brussels presents an innovative exhibition titled “Smooth as Velvet,” running from September 13, 2024, to June 30, 2025. It features the works of five contemporary artists who have transformed Victor Horta’s iconic house with their velvet creations. Each artist—Louisa Carmona, Flore & Pauline Fockedey, Élise Peroi, and Marc Van Hoe—was given full creative freedom to interpret the unique space through textile artistry.
This exhibition is part of a broader cycle that focuses on ornamentation, pattern, and decor. The choice of velvet as the centerpiece honors Horta’s love for textiles, especially silk, which he often incorporated into his designs. Visitors will discover how each artist has reimagined the use of this luxurious fabric to fit both the museum setting and domestic life.
Rooms such as the kitchen, breakfast room, and boudoir have been adorned with these velvet installations, creating a sensory experience that bridges the gap between history and modern design. From Carmona’s exploration of movement in the kitchen to Peroi’s theatrical border in the boudoir, every piece invites reflection on the material’s tactile and visual qualities.
“Smooth as Velvet” is more than an exhibition—it’s an invitation to step into a world where textiles speak volumes, enhancing both the architectural and artistic legacy of one of Belgium’s most celebrated figures.
