On 17 June 2025, it will be one year since we said farewell to art historian Prof. Dr. Hans M. De Wolf. A man who didn’t just teach art history but lived and breathed it, bringing it into dialogue with life itself. The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and his partner, Cornelia Tietz, invite everyone who knew Hans – or was touched by his work – to a commemoration as multifaceted as the man himself.
During the pandemic, Hans launched Paradise Projects, a bold exhibition where eight artists explored what it means to be human. From Honoré d’O’s intriguing “Zalm/Saumon/Salmon” to works by Joëlle Tuerlinckx, Frank Theys, and others – each piece a unique chapter in a story that invites reflection.
On 17 June, the commemoration will unveil the final chapter of Paradise Projects for the first time: a film project by Ariane Loze, where Hans himself guides the viewer through his exhibition. It’s a vivid and intimate portrait of a passionate curator who shared his love of art with the world.
In addition, Honoré d’O – the Belgian installation and video artist who was named VUB’s first Master of Arts by honorary rector Caroline Pauwels during Paradise Projects – will present a brand-new commemorative artwork.
Finally, Decorum will be launched – a posthumous essay by Hans on rivalry in art history. Sharp, erudite, and unmistakably Hans. It’s a powerful reminder of how art can make the world speak, even when its maker falls silent.
Commemoration on 17 June 2025
Date: Tuesday, 17 June 2025, from 17:30 to 19:30
Place: VUB / Pilar, Triomflaan Entrance 6, 1050 Etterbeek
*This is a machine translation. We apologise for any inaccuracies.