On June 17, 2025, it will be exactly one year since art historian Prof. Dr. Hans M. De Wolf passed away—a thinker who not only taught art history at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel but also lived and connected it deeply with life itself. His spouse, Cornelia Tietz, is organizing a multifaceted commemoration to honor his intellectual and artistic legacy.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, De Wolf launched the art project Paradise Projects, an exhibition in which eight artists explore the essence of being human. From the intriguing “Zalm/Saumon/Salmon” by Honoré d’O to works by Joëlle Tuerlinckx and Frank Theys, each piece is a distinctive chapter inviting reflection.
For the first time, the final chapter of Paradise Projects will be presented during the June 17 commemoration: a film project by Ariane Loze, in which Hans De Wolf himself guides the viewer through his exhibition. The result is an intimate portrait of a passionate curator who continued to share his love of art with the world — right to the end.
Additionally, Honoré d’O—Belgian installation and video artist, who was named the first ‘VUB Master of Arts’ by honorary rector Caroline Pauwels during Paradise Projects—will present a new commemorative artwork.
Finally, the posthumously published essay Decorum will be introduced: a sharp, erudite analysis of rivalry in art history. A text that preserves De Wolf’s intellectual acuity and stylistic signature—and reminds us how art can continue to speak, even when its creator falls silent.
You are warmly invited to attend this commemorative event. There will be opportunities to speak with the participating artists and colleagues. Please RSVP in advance via Leen.Vandevelde2@vub.be or +32 471 09 17 24.
Practical info
Tuesday 17 June 2025
From 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
VUB/Pilar, Triomflaan entrance 6
1050 Etterbeek