In 2025, we celebrate the Belgian visionary artist and engineer of dreams Panamarenko (1940-2019), who brought together art and science in unprecedented ways and who would have turned 85 this year. To mark this milestone, the Panamarenko Foundation has launched the Panamarenko85 initiative, as a tribute to this pioneer, innovator, and inspirer who continues to challenge generations to think bigger and dream further. The Panamarenko year brings a series of unique events and exhibitions across Belgium.
- In Knokke, in collaboration with the Scharpoord Cultural Centre Knokke-Heist and through the Panamarenko Art Tour.
- In Antwerp, in partnership with M HKA, KMSKA, S.M.A.K., and Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
From iconic locations to surprising collaborations, Panamarenko85 introduces you to the universe of an artist who was far ahead of his time.
Explore the various exhibitions below:
Panamarenko Art Tour Knokke-Heist
From June 12 to August 23, you can explore the universe of Panamarenko, one of Belgium’s most idiosyncratic artists, during a surprising ART Tour through Knokke-Heist. In short: a unique journey of discovery along art, taste, and stories – with Panamarenko in the leading role.
Aboard an electric city vehicle and guided by an experienced guide, participants experience first-hand how art, gastronomy, and storytelling seamlessly merge – with various inspiring stops along the way.
More information can be found via the following link: myknokke-heist.be
Scharpoord Cultural Centre Knokke-Heist
Exhibition: Panamarenko’s Zoo by the Sea
Until August 24, 2025, the Panamarenko Foundation and Cultural Centre Knokke-Heist present the unique exhibition Panamarenko’s Zoo by the Sea. This expo offers a fresh look at Panamarenko’s iconic oeuvre (1940-2019) and, for the first time, highlights the role of animals in his work. With a rich selection of sculptures, drawings, photos, moving images, and special memorabilia, visitors dive into the magical animal world of this visionary artist. An exceptional opportunity to discover Panamarenko’s animal universe.
More information can be found via the following link: panamarenko85.be/exhibitions
M HKA
Exhibition: Panamarenko – Journey to the Stars
From the 1970s, Panamarenko developed theoretical models for ‘closed systems’, conducted empirical research into (electro)magnetism, built various spacecraft, and in the early 1990s arrived at his all-encompassing space theory, Toymodel of Space. The intimate presentation Journey to the Stars zooms in on Panamarenko’s fascination with the cosmos and his quest to navigate the universe.
The exhibition runs until September 7, 2025.
More information can be found via the following link: muhka.be/exhibitions
KMSKA
Panamarenko’s Magic Carpet (2025)
The Panamarenko Foundation presents an exceptional edition: Magic Carpet (2025). This limited multiple is a tribute to Panamarenko’s visionary power, where art and technology meet poetically. The multiple is based on the original Magic Carpet, which can be seen until September 2025 in the De Keyserzaal of the KMSKA, and is released in an exclusive edition of 24 numbered pieces, 6 artist’s proofs (A.P.), and one prototype. The prototype of the Magic Carpet edition will be on display in the KMSKA museum shop until September 2025.
More information can be found via the following link: panamarenko85.be/panamarenko-magic-carpet-collectors-edition/
