Five questions to an M-art patron

Isabelle Vanlaere grew up in an art-loving family, received artistic training and designs timeless jewellery with natural materials. What is her next step? Becoming an M-art patron!

Being M-art patron is about sharing your passion with others

Isabelle Vanlaere

M-art patron

What inspired you to become M-art patron?

“I studied jewellery design at the Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. As students there, we went to vernissages in galleries or museums one evening a month. These were very informative, and also very enjoyable - if only because of the free drinks (laughs). But that is a long time ago now. I have a family, my own business that I am busy with... I missed that sense of being able to share a passion with others. That’s why I became M-art patron a few years ago so I could get that feeling back.”

“As an M-art patron, you can choose from a varied programme. I am especially a fan of the studio visits. A while ago, Sofie Muller welcomed a small group of us to her studio in Ghent. You might know her from the magnificent heads in alabaster she made for the ‘Alabaster’ exhibition in 2022. The house, the studio, her work, the explanations she gave ... Everything was perfect.”

“Another advantage of being an M-art patron is the previews of new exhibitions, with explanations by the curator or artist. I recently forgot to renew my membership. Until I went to the great Bouts exhibition with the family one Sunday. Busy! When I got home, I immediately sent an email to M: I’ll be back (laughs)!”

Zaalzicht 'Atelier Bouts', 2024, M Leuven — © Elias Derboven voor M Leuven

Are there any exhibitions or artworks that have had a particular impact on you?

“I was very impressed a few years ago by ‘BANG!’, the city festival around the big bang theory, with exhibitions at M and KU Leuven. Everything revolved around art and science, and what they can learn from each other. I am not at all scientifical myself, but you got a broader perspective there that I found particularly fascinating.”

“That cross-pollination is also typical of Leuven, I think. Where do you find so much talent in such a small area?”

What impact do arts and culture have on your life?

“Art gives me peace, balance. At the same time, it feeds me. Artistically, but also personally.”

“Unfortunately, I don’t have much time to visit M as I work six days a week. But when I go, I really enjoy it. That’s real me-time. My children sometimes come with me. I don’t impose anything, but let them find their own way. For example, they used to enjoy imitating works of art like a statue, the pose of a character in a painting... they pick up things that way subconsciously. My parents let me do the same when I was little.”

Is there an artwork from the museum that has a special meaning for you?

“I am not attached to one work, I enjoy being surprised. But I have a thing for ‘The Last Supper’ by Bouts. When I made my communion as a child, my parents had chosen an image of ‘The Last Supper’ for the prayer card. At the time, it made me embarrassed because my girlfriends all had pretty pictures of themselves. Now I am proud of it.”

“Bouts has also inspired me in my work. How he painted gold and precious stones, the beautiful natural pigments he used... I sometimes let those colour combinations recur in my jewellery.”

What message would you like to give to people who are also considering becoming an M-art patron?

“Do it! It’s really interesting, you meet cool people, you get the chance to experience unique things ... You don’t have to be an art expert for it, and it’s not elitist or anything. I would say ‘don’t hesitate’.”

Zaalzicht 'Atelier Bouts', 2024, M Leuven, foto: © Elias Derboven voor M Leuven

M-bassadeurs in de museumzalen van M — Eline Willaert voor M Leuven

Is becoming an M-art patron something for you?

Our M-art patrons enable valuable artistic and socio-cultural projects. Would you like to contribute to that while enjoying the exclusive and in-depth M-arts patrons offer?

Absolutely!