Vision

Collaboration

Gallery Sofie Van de Velde, located in two areas in Antwerp, stands for entrepreneurship in art. Through the participation in art fairs and exhibitions, the gallery focuses on representing artists in a strong international network. Together with the artist, strategies are defined to bring the body of work to a new level. Moving away from a conventional competition-minded gallery model, Sofie Van de Velde’s philosophy is one of collaboration and shared opportunities and networks.

The location at Nieuw Zuid, which is shared with PLUS-ONE Gallery, presents a strong and diverse exhibition program. Both galleries share not only a physical space but also a philosophy, believing in a positive and transparent attitude of collaboration while maintaining their own perspective on artistic choices. As one of the first galleries to settle in this new neighborhood, Gallery Sofie Van de Velde also seeks opportunities for the integration of more art in Nieuw Zuid.

In 2020, the gallery opened a second location in Antwerp South, which is dedicated to solo exhibitions by Belgian and international artists. This gallery operates as an alternating exhibition space with PLUS-ONE Gallery, allowing for a diverse and dynamic curatorial program.

Art Integration

Through active use of its international network, Gallery Sofie Van de Velde continuously seeks opportunities to integrate art in the city and in the public space. The bringing together of artists and projects in a broader context is part of the gallery’s entrepreneurial view on art, and endorses the belief that a dialogue between the city and the contemporary art scene is mutually beneficial.

A beautiful example is given by artist Germaine Kruip, who will create an artwork on the new glass dome of the Antwerp city hall. She has designed the work in close dialogue with the team responsible for the renovations, so that it will reinforce the inherent qualities of the building. The renovations of the city hall are due to finish in 2020.

Estates

As a consequence of a deep affection for certain oeuvres, Gallery Sofie Van de Velde also supports and manages several artist estates. In close collaboration with the family of the deceased artist, the gallery offers structural and visionary support when necessary. In doing so, it protects the oeuvre and allows it to grow gradually in a broad and international context.

Currently Gallery Sofie Van de Velde manages the artist estates of Ilse D'Hollander, Guy Mees and, Charlotte Posenenske.

Both Gallery Sofie Van de Velde and PLUS-ONE Gallery occasionally opt for the inclusion of older works in exhibitions. Bringing twentieth-century works together with contemporary pieces, is a way of proving they haven’t lost any of their relevance. Structurally supporting artist estates is another one.