In the vibrant world of contemporary art, few artists manage to capture the essence of nostalgia while incorporating elements of modernity. Ludo Knaepkens, a Belgian painter passionate about pop art, is part of this elite group. Located at the Begijnhof studio, this artist also runs the Expo 38 art gallery, where he exhibits his unique works.
His passion for art awakened later in life. Although he always drew and painted, his talent was not encouraged in his youth. It was only after taking art history classes at DKO and training in gallery management at Syntra that he dared to take the plunge. He first opened a pop-up gallery in Ostend and Antwerp, marking the beginning of his artistic journey.
For him, art is a mine of inspiration and a subject of perpetual fascination. He is captivated by artists' ways of thinking, their techniques, materials, and perspectives on the world. Each visit to a museum or exhibition enriches his reflection, strengthening his commitment to his own work.
What makes his art unique is his pop art style, rooted in his background as a draftsman and comic book artist. His portraits are not realistic, but thanks to his personal approach to colors, they sometimes resemble realistic graphic photographs. Ludo Knaepkens paints every day in his studio, where he clears his mind and creates his own little world.
The artist evokes the characteristics of Belgian creators: modesty, diversity, and humor.
According to him, Belgium is a unique country, rich in international influences and history. This mix, combined with a relativizing mentality, undeniably influences the development of art in the country.
When asked about surrealism, he defines it as a mentality, a way of perceiving reality differently. His ability to visualize stories like a moving film allows him to interpret the world with a unique sensitivity. For Ludo Knaepkens, surrealism offers an escape from the harshness of reality, maintaining a balance between dream and reality.
Finally, the artist does not hide his love for Belgium. He mentions the diversity of landscapes, the richness of culture and art, and the gastronomy. According to him, it is here that he was able to realize his dreams through determination, originality, and significant encounters.
Ludo Knaepkens is much more than just an artist. He is a dreamer, a creator of colorful worlds, and an observer of the human condition. His works are an invitation to feel, to reflect, and to marvel—a true ode to the beauty of life.
