Sotheby’s Brussels hosted the opening of “A Sense of Place”, an exhibition featuring the works of renowned photographer Harry Gruyaert. The event, held in collaboration with Gallery Fifty One, was attended by art lovers, collectors, and photography enthusiasts eager to witness the vibrant and evocative pieces that have defined Gruyaert’s career.
Born in Antwerp in 1941, Harry Gruyaert’s journey to becoming a pioneering figure in color photography took off when he left Belgium in the 1960s to explore the world. His early travels, notably his first visit to New York in 1968, exposed him to Pop Art, a revelation that greatly influenced his artistic trajectory. His bold move towards color photography in the 1970s, a time when black and white dominated the field, marked him as a trailblazer in Europe.
The exhibition showcases a broad selection of Gruyaert’s works, celebrated for their striking use of color and the photographer’s keen ability to capture fleeting moments of light and life. From Europe to North Africa, the United States, and beyond, Gruyaert’s lens offers a unique window into the interplay of form, movement, and hues across varied landscapes and cultures. His distinctive style, shaped by a background in cinema, challenges traditional narrative photography by focusing on the visual beauty found in everyday scenes.
The opening event was set in the elegant surroundings of Sotheby’s Avenue Louise gallery, offering guests an intimate setting to enjoy Gruyaert’s work. The relaxed atmosphere was enhanced by a cocktail bar where guests were treated to a selection of drinks prepared by an in-house bartender, adding a touch of informality to the evening. Attendees mingled as they took in the diverse array of Gruyaert’s photos, each one offering a distinct moment of visual storytelling through his signature saturated tones and masterful use of light.
The exhibition provides a rich overview of Gruyaert’s prolific career, spanning his early explorations of color in Morocco to his more recent works. As a member of the prestigious Magnum Photos since 1981, his influence and contributions to photography are internationally recognized.
“A Sense of Place” will remain open to the public until 8 November at Sotheby’s Brussels, giving visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Gruyaert’s vibrant and thoughtful collection of works.
