
Surrealism: a major movement taking the world by storm Born in 1924 with the publication of André Breton’s founding Manifesto, Surrealism celebrates its centennial this year. Whether it be in cinema, fashion, literature or theater, the surrealist spirit is still going strong, influencing new generations of creative minds. Not only is this artistic movement deeply significant within Belgian history and culture, its legacy is being celebrated all around the world, starting with Paris, the historical epicenter of the surrealist movement. Delvaux is the official partner of the remarkable “Surrealism” exhibition, which is currently showcased within Centre Pompidou. The relationship uniting Delvaux and Surrealism is, in fact, a particularly meaningful one. Didier Ottinger, the respected art critic, author -and co-curator of the “Surrealism” exhibition- has underlined the importance of Delvaux as a naturally committed and dedicated partner of the Arts in general, and Surrealism in particular: “The oldest luxury leather goods Maison in the world, Delvaux initiated a partnership with Surrealism whose goal was to be long-term, expanding over the past 10 years with creative collections and the presentation of René Magritte’s original artworks in the United States, South Korea and China.”
Delvaux has been enjoying a privileged and fruitful relationship with Surrealism and the Magritte Foundation. The Belgian Maison signed an exclusive agreement allowing it to showcase Magritte’s artworks across Asia, underlining Delvaux’s unique position as a committed patron of the Arts. This SUR:REAL collection explores the works -and heritage- of other significant surrealist artists, while keeping the work of René Magritte as a primary reference. More innovative and ambitious than ever, this new line opens-up its exploration of Surrealism to include the input of other visionaries, such as Salvador Dalí for instance. With its enchanting designs and bold reinterpretation of Surrealism, Delvaux introduces a truly memorable collection, focused on humor, excellence, astounding craftsmanship and the powers of the subconscious.
Both Magritte and Delvaux share a fearlessness and creative power making them truly one of a kind. The legacy of Surrealism and its celebration of the unexpected, as well as multilayered meanings, appeals to Delvaux’s essence and its unparalleled savoir-faire. Some of the Belgian painter's favorite motifs, such as the clouds, apples, trees and pipe, have been reworked with a contemporary flair. Unexpected additions to the “Vagabond” and “Brillant” families are some of the collection’s highlights, as well as its use of refined techniques and craftsmanship, making some of these pieces utterly unique.
Defined by its impressive and imaginative use of artisanal techniques, the SUR:REAL collection successfully blurs the boundaries between art and craft. Embroidery is one of the techniques the Belgian Maison chose in order to elevate some of its creations, such as the “Tempête” ‘Le Chant de l’Orage’ or “Brillant” Mini ‘Nuages Cannetilles’, which required 35 hours of work to complete its outstanding embroidery.
In order to celebrate Delvaux’s new SUR:REAL collection, the Belgian Maison planned a schedule of exclusive SUR:REAL installations across Asia. Starting in early 2025, these travelling installations will offer a truly immersive experience, designed to engage visitors in a fun and interactive way. Referencing the beauty of nature – a key motif in René Magritte’s work – each SUR:REAL installation invites guests to play with their surroundings. With elements that encourage interaction, such as drawing and writing on the whimsical white trees, the installations are as playful as they are poetic, sparking curiosity and creativity as they move from one country to the next. Kicking off with Taiwan on the 4th of January, this poetic journey will continue with Japan -in partnership with Isetan- from the 29th of January to the 4th of February. South Korea will welcome its own SUR:REAL installation on the 27th of February.
Conceived like a magical and imaginary forest, every SUR:REAL installation showcases Magritte’s love for trees, as well as the stunning new collection crafted by the Belgian Maison. Guests will be invited to write and draw on the white trees presented there. Reinforcing the strong bond uniting Delvaux and its Asian clientele, this unexpected surrealist journey will surprise -and amaze- every single visitor.
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