Shape of Absence Opens at Villa Empain This June
Shape of Absence Opens at Villa Empain in Brussels
This June, the Boghossian Foundation unveils Shape of Absence, a major new exhibition at the iconic Villa Empain in Brussels. Opening to the public on 18 June 2026, the exhibition will run until 24 January 2027 and promises a thought-provoking exploration of memory, heritage and what remains when people, places or histories disappear.
Presented in the Villa Empain Project Space, Shape of Absence brings together the work of acclaimed artist Hrair Sarkissian alongside contributions connected to the preservation of cultural memory. The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on absence not as emptiness, but as a powerful presence that continues to shape collective identity.
A New Exhibition by Hrair Sarkissian
Known internationally for his photography and multidisciplinary practice, Hrair Sarkissian often explores themes of conflict, displacement, loss and remembrance. His work examines the traces left behind by history and the ways in which societies remember what has vanished.
For Shape of Absence, visitors can expect an exhibition that combines artistic expression with deeper questions about culture, heritage and human experience.
The exhibition opens following a private preview on 17 June, attended by the artist, Yves Ubelmann, founder of Iconem, and Louma Salamé, Director of the Boghossian Foundation.
A Busy June at Villa Empain
Alongside Shape of Absence, Villa Empain continues its cultural programme with a variety of events linked to the exhibition Diary of Happiness by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel.
On 6 June, visitors can attend an Art Talk with Jean-Michel Othoniel, who will share stories from his travels and discuss the creative process behind his work. The event will take place at Villa Empain and will also be available online.
Families can take part in a Watercolour Travel Diary workshop on 7 June, while art lovers can join a guided tour exploring the poetic universe of Diary of Happiness during the Vestalia Festival.
Later in the month, the popular Friday Late returns on 26 June. Visitors will be able to experience the exhibition after hours while enjoying an electronic music set by Oulad Omar beside the Villa Empain pool.
About Villa Empain
Located on Avenue Franklin Roosevelt in Brussels, Villa Empain is one of the city’s most remarkable cultural landmarks. Operated by the Boghossian Foundation, the Art Deco villa serves as a centre for art, dialogue and cultural exchange between Eastern and Western cultures.
Throughout the year, the venue hosts exhibitions, lectures, performances and educational programmes that bring together artists, thinkers and visitors from around the world.
With the opening of Shape of Absence, Villa Empain once again reinforces its position as one of Brussels’ most important destinations for contemporary art and cultural dialogue.
Plan Your Visit
Shape of Absence will be on view at Villa Empain from 18 June 2026 until 24 January 2027
Visitors can also discover Diary of Happiness, currently running until 4 October 2026, alongside the Villa’s extensive programme of talks, tours and cultural events throughout the summer.
Tickets available here
Further Reading
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