An Unforgettable Artistic Journey
In the heart of the splendid Haut-Martelange Valley, an extraordinary exhibition captured the imagination of visitors for three weeks of pure artistic enchantment. From April 20th to May 5th, 2024, the Haut-Martelange Slate Museum showcased the sensational works of two exceptional Arlon artists: Renaud Matgen and Frédéric Biren.
The opening reception, a moment of magic and celebration, brought together 210 enthusiastic individuals eager to delve into a world where slate and paint come to life. There, they were greeted by Renaud Matgen's fascinating sculptures, works that defy the limits of materiality to give birth to humanoid forms of striking beauty. Frédéric Biren, on the other hand, unveiled his captivating canvases - portraits that capture the very essence of human emotion, plunging spectators into a whirlwind of feelings.
But the exhibition was not limited to passive observation of the works. Visitors had the opportunity to uncover the well-guarded secrets of the Slate Museum, thus adding an additional dimension to their artistic experience. Moreover, a special collaboration between Renaud Matgen and Sébastien Stouvenaker from the renowned Martelangeoise Stouvenaker pastry shop gave rise to an equally captivating chocolate sculpture, a bold fusion of art and indulgence.
Throughout the exhibition, the engagement and enthusiasm of the public continued to grow, culminating in the excitement of rewarding the 800th visitor on Tuesday, April 30th, and thus surpassing the impressive threshold of the 1000th visitor on May 4th. These moments of recognition underscored the importance of art in our lives and strengthened the bond between artists and their audience.
Finally, the exhibition concluded with a climax with a silent auction on Sunday, May 5th, offering visitors the chance to take home a piece of this unforgettable artistic experience. The excitement was palpable as bids rose and the works found new homes with lucky collectors. The proceeds from this auction will be shared equitably between the two associations on either side of the Martelange border, Kiwanis for Belgium and Les Amis de l'Ardoise for the Grand Duchy.
On behalf of the entire team behind the Matgen & Biren Exhibition, we would like to express our profound gratitude to our generous sponsors, with special thanks to main donor Michel Fauconnier from ARMA S.A., the two municipalities of Martelange and Rambrouch, as well as the Ministry of Culture. We also thank each person who contributed to making this event a resounding success.
Together, we have created an unforgettable artistic journey, a moment where art transcended borders and touched our souls in a way that will be etched in our memories for years to come.
The Slate Museum Team
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