UCL has been a pioneer in introducing the concept, new in Belgium, of university artists’ residences. The first experiment was carried out in collaboration with the composer and conductor Pierre Bartholomée as part of events to mark the university’s 575th anniversary. Now, we want to go even further.
Our aim is for the university community to be given the chance to meet artists from all subjects and walks of life. Not just a quick encounter after a show, a conference or a concert, but rather over the course of a longer stay, during which the artist would form part of a teaching and research unit to be used according to the needs and wishes of the artist, students and teachers. The move is based on give and take: the artists in question have a keen interest in the university world, science and teaching. And, for its part, the university agrees to have its methods challenged by the ‘artistic approach’, as part of an overall effort to explore methods of expression that differ from its own.
In order to fund the initiative, UCL has asked for the help of the Fondation Louvain which created the chair ‘Artistes en résidence’. This should allow the university to give over some class, seminar, workshop and work experience time to the artists.
In 2005-2006, Pietro Pizutti (pictured above), actor and director, was the first artist in residence.
UCL then went on to host the film directors Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne.
In 2006-2007, Bernard Foccroulle (pictured above), currently director of the Théâtre Royale de la Monnaie, will be present at the university.
We are able to fund the programme ‘Artistes en résidence’ thanks to the generosity of Fondation Louvain sponsors.