The May/June issue gives way to a new 20-something list, featuring visual artists, photographers, art collectives, dancers, musicians and much more. Twenty people who are a representation of young society in Belgium, a generation ready to rule our world. Let us introduce you to the faces you didn’t realise you wanted to meet!
Wijk 8 - Sander Mortier, Adrian Krajcovic and Esteban Sola
off-space, Ghent, 21
How would you describe what you do?
We’re three artists from Ghent who felt the need to create a new exhibition space. By rebuilding the entrance of our atelier, we created an off-space that all together now is WIJK 8. Our goal is to provide artists with a platform where they can get in touch with art enthusiasts and galleries. Mainly, we want to support starting artists because the road to becoming a professional artist is very suffocating. By serving as a meeting point, WIJK 8 hopes to change the way young artists are treated.
We want to support starting artists because the road to becoming a professional artist is very suffocating
What are you currently busy with?
We’re trying to organize exhibitions during the Corona crisis and getting our name out there. Currently, we’re also busy starting up a podcast, where we will talk with the artists who will show their work in WIJK 8.
Anything planned for the future?
We’re looking into expanding our ateliers and off-space.
Latest déjà vu?
We are very scared that the atelier will burn down.
Any new habits?
Waking up at eight.
What’s your daily routine like?
We don’t really have a daily routine but that’s the beauty of it. We do a lot of atelier visits, make a lot of new connections and we have to be at school from time to time. But every other weekend there’s a new artist exhibiting. The passion keeps us going.
Weirdest dream you’ve had?
WIJK 8 in Beijing.
What advice would you give your younger/older self?
Don’t forget to enjoy what you’ve created.
Favourite emoji?
🤖
Cutest desire you have?
Them boys in Beijing.
Things are not as hard as they seem. For example: going professional is also possible on a low budget
Love of your life?
Each other.
Biggest personal change since last year?
By doing this we are forced to be adults. By becoming a VZW and organizing exhibitions during lockdown and such we have to be more careful with what we do.
How did last year change your perspective?
That things are not as hard as they seem. For example: going professional is also possible on a low budget.
Are you a nostalgic person?
One year ago, we were sitting in a bar and had the plan of renting an atelier together. With some precaution and a lot of impulsivity, we made it.
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