Celebrate Art Deco in Brussels with 100 Motifs, (No) Motif, All Over, a landmark exhibition at the Horta Museum. This show forms part of Art Deco at Home, a major program including the Van Buuren Museum, the Boghossian Foundation, the Autrique House, and the Art Deco Society.
All Pictures by Thomas Lanz
In honor of the centenary of the 1925 Decorative Arts Exhibition in Paris and the Art Deco Year 2025 in Brussels, the Horta Museum invites you to explore the transformative design motifs of the early 20th century. From May 15 to November 2, 2025, immerse yourself in an innovative exhibition that revisits the decorative arts of the period, focusing on the evolution of patterns, colors, and ornamental design between 1910 and 1940.
100 Motifs: A New Look at Art Deco Design
100 Motifs, (No) Motif, All Over offers a fresh perspective on Art Deco, moving beyond common stereotypes to showcase the incredible variety of design motifs from this pivotal era. Featuring nearly 100 unique drawings for rugs, wallpaper, and upholstery fabrics, the exhibition highlights works by both famous and lesser-known Belgian and international designers, including Victor Servranckx, Eileen Gray, Evelyn Wyld, René Baucher, Sylvie Féron, and Hélène Henry.
This exhibition delves into the role of décor and design motifs, exploring how these elements not only shaped the aesthetic of the time but also reflected broader social, economic, and cultural shifts. Expect to discover insights into the creativity of both anonymous and recognized designers, with case studies examining the influence of female designers and socio-economic factors on decorative arts.
Art Deco Motifs: A Journey Through Time
Between 1910 and 1945, European design underwent a dramatic transformation. The exhibition explores how the art world responded to social upheavals, changing aesthetics, and historical events through the lens of decorative motifs. Focusing on three core elements—wallpaper, carpets, and upholstery—the Horta Museum’s exhibit showcases the dynamic range of artistic expressions from this period.
Who Were the Designers of the Art Deco Era?
The diversity of Art Deco design is represented through works by:
- Female artists
- Anonymous artists
- Recognized designers
The Last Golden Age of Ornamentation
The interwar years are often referred to as the final golden age of ornamentation, as artistic expression flourished in new and unexpected ways. Some designs embraced the opulence of Art Deco, while others adhered to more classical 19th-century styles. Still others introduced a minimalist approach, associated with modernism. The exhibition offers a nuanced exploration of these movements, emphasizing the richness and diversity of artistic forms rather than rigid labels.
Art Deco for Everyone
Explore how Art Deco style permeated all levels of society. How did these bold designs influence the interiors of ordinary homes? What role did department stores and cinemas play in democratizing design? Through exclusive works from the Van Hoe collection, including previously unpublished designs by anonymous artists, this exhibition shows how Art Deco style was adapted for a broader audience while still maintaining its artistic integrity.
Art Deco for the Elite
In contrast, bespoke creations by renowned designers catered to a more affluent clientele. These elite designs illustrate the work of early interior architects who crafted fully personalized spaces for the privileged few. Designers like Eileen Gray, Evelyn Wyld, Sylvie Féron, and René Baucher will be featured, with a particular focus on their carpet designs.
Anonymous Designers and Their Legacy
Many designers from this era have faded into obscurity, their names lost to history. The Van Hoe collection offers a poignant look at these forgotten artists, whose works reflect the creative richness of their time. The exhibition also highlights how some fine artists turned to applied arts, like wallpaper, to bring their designs to a wider audience, creating commercially viable versions of their personal styles.
Hélène Henry: A Leading Light of Art Deco
Among the rarer, fully specialized creators, Hélène Henry stands out. Known for her mastery in a single artistic discipline, Henry’s work is a testament to the highest levels of Art Deco craftsmanship. Her recognition in the field underscores the value of focused artistic expertise during this period.
Practical Information
The exhibition runs till November 2, 2025.
The museum is open Tuesday to Friday from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, and weekends from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays, July 21, and August 15.
Visit Horta Museum, Amerikastraat 27, 1060 Brussels. The exhibition is free; regular admission applies for the museum.
