Espace Aygo Creates Rooms for Three Fictional Characters

by

As a devoted admirer, I find myself captivated by the transformation I’ve witnessed in an old, forgotten structure nestled in the heart of Brussels. This once desolate building has been miraculously revitalized by a vibrant collective – Espace Aygo – composed of talented artists and designers.

In the freshly named venue called Asifose, a variety of artistic professionals will find their new abode. These creators will shape and modify this space according to their unique requirements.

Within the structure, traces of its historical self remain, such as two complete-sized boats. Artistic elements are also noticeable, like murals adorning the walls, and an intricately designed wooden ramp that curves gently. The ground floor houses a supply of various materials and a woodworking workshop, while studios can be found throughout the rest of the building.

In order to officially open the space, a group exhibition was created, showcasing the work of more than 30 designers and artists under the title “A Glimpse Within”, which served as its grand opening.

The program, guided by its theme, invites guests into a sequence of themed spaces, each representing distinctive personas: The Mother, The Inhabitant of the Carpet Room, and The Surgeon. Each room showcases objects that align with the characters’ fictional personalities.




The designers who were invited were provided with character profiles and asked to design something that would embody these characters’ ideas. As the curators explain, “Every object, whether it’s a common item or a cherished memento, carries a hint of its owner, transforming the inactive into a quiet storyteller.

Upon entering, visitors find themselves in a room reminiscent of a loving home, adorned with rustic folk art elements. The space is filled with handcrafted wooden items and intricately painted decorations, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

In a marked contrast, we find “The Room That Appears to House the Owner,” which, while minimalistic, stands in stark comparison to its extravagant forerunner. The atmosphere here is more sparse, with a chill in the air, yet it’s softened by the presence of a handcrafted carpet and scattered ceramics.

Last but not least is the room named “The Surgeon”. This could be the most chilling room, as it exudes a spooky vibe. One corner hosts a peculiar surgeon’s chair with multiple legs, while the other corner features a sink adorned with intricately carved teeth.

The organizers explain that this exhibit aims to delve into how art and design can surpass their practical roles, transforming into containers for memories, yearnings, and creativity. They encourage you to engage with these areas – not simply as an observer, but as a spectator, suspended between what is visible and what is merely sensed.

Peeping Through is on show from March 12 to April 25, at Asifose.

Asifose
Quai des Charbonnages 50A,
1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean.
Brussels

Read More

2025-03-14 14:26