Witty and Macabre

Reveals the ongoing influence and relevance of Belgian symbolism, Flemish expressionism, and surrealism in the work of 25 contemporary artists. Visually stunning, Witty and Macabre shows how the unique sense of dark humor and figurative influences that defined the art of the Lowlands for centuries remains influential and relevant in contemporary art. Artist and curator Zeller, author of New Surrealism, first gives us a brief historical overview of the symbolists, the Flemish expressionists, and the Belgian variant of surrealism, featuring work by James Ensor, Rene Magritte, Paul Delvaux, and many others. Then, through insightful profiles and images of their works, the book offers an international array of 25 artists currently working in Belgium, including Luc Tuymans, Sanam Khatibi, Michael Borremans, Aline Bouvy, and others. Through 195 works of art, understand the influence and impact of Belgian symbolism, Flemish expressionism, and surrealism on contemporary art. The 25 artists cover an intriguing range, from those starting their careers to internationally famous, well-established artists. Covers often-overlooked figures in Belgian art, such as Jane Gaverol, a groundbreaking Belgian surrealist, and Paul Nouge, the Belgian equivalent to Andre Breton.