Stadsgardeville is a Brussels based collective that invites artists from different cities to shine their light on their beloved hometown. I was originally invited to participate in 2020, and after several postponements due to the pandemic, the exhibition finally took place in April 2022 at Edmond Brussels.

As with much of my work I was influenced by the motifs and skill found in decorative and folk art. I began this project by researching heritage crafts that originated in Brussels. The resulting artwork is a painted representation of a type of Brussels Lace, a method of bobbin lace manufacturing that originated in the area and which dates back to the 17th century. The lace informed both the visual and material content of the artwork. I have used Belgian Linen, a textile which similarly to Brussel Lace, is made with Belgian flax.

My impression of Brussels is that it has a certain roughness and authenticity which contrasts with the grand architecture and the political and cultural institutions. My intention with this work was to highlight a history in craft and material that reflects the city’s delicate side rich in historical and social meaning.

The artwork was made using off cut material donated by Libeco Belgian Linens.