Eddy Vermeulen (1946)
Occupation: Illustrator, caricaturist, and artist
Nationality: Belgian
Why an honorary doctorate?
Eddy Vermeulen, better known as Ever Meulen, receives the honorary doctorate for giving Brussels a face. Through his posters and illustrations, he depicts the city as it lives: layered, idiosyncratic, and full of detail. A place where nostalgia and modernity coexist effortlessly.
With his distinctive visual language, he has brought Brussels to attention far beyond Belgium’s borders, becoming a lasting visual ambassador for the capital.
"Louis Vuitton wanted to send me out into the world, but I chose Brussels. I simply prefer to draw what I know and love"
About her career
Ever Meulen began his career in the late 1960s and quickly established himself as a leading illustrator. His comics and illustrations caught the attention of international magazines and galleries, leading to exhibitions in London, Geneva, and New York.
Beyond magazine work, Meulen has designed numerous posters, album covers, and stamps, and has given lectures and workshops. His work is visually striking and conceptually sophisticated, praised for its combination of technical finesse and playful inventiveness.
Recognition
- Henry van de Velde Award – Lifetime Achievement (2013) for his entire body of work
- Bronzen Zinneke – Brussels cultural distinction (2019)
- Gold Award – Best Magazine Cover – for Humo (1983)
- Certificate of Design Excellence – RAW Magazine, USA (1980s)
- International exhibitions – London, Liverpool, Angoulême, New York City, Geneva, Amsterdam, Lyon, Turku (Finland)
What is an honorary doctorate?
VUB has awarded honorary doctorates every year since 1978 to personalities from the most diverse backgrounds who have made a remarkable contribution to their field and to society. From this solemn moment of recognition, they bear the honorary title of Doctor Honoris Causa of VUB.