open ATELIER ouvert

From Empire style to Art Nouveau, from the sweeping lines of Victor Horta to the clean lines of Gustave Serrurier-Bovy — whether working with ceramics, wood, textiles, ivory, or a combination of materials, each designer left their own mark on European decorative arts of the 19^th and 20^th centuries. Objects were specially designed to make everyday life more beautiful.

And now it’s your turn! Join the open ATELIER ouvert table, where a museum guide will challenge you to create your own beautiful designs.

In October, we delve into the world of optics, because during the 19^th century, people loved to experiment with early versions of photography and film. Make your own camera obscura with cardboard and a little patience, and see the world upside down! Or create a thaumatrope, literally a ​“wonder turny thingy”: a 19^th-century toy for young and old alike.

In December, we make things cosy. Choose, cut, and paste, and before you know it, you’ve created an original interior in paper. Here’s the bedroom, there’s the kitchen, and there’s Grandma embroidering in front of the fireplace. Maybe you’d like to try it too? Grab a needle and thread and have a go at cross-stitching!