Fernand Khnopff and the Belgian Avant-Garde

5 January–26 February 1984

Fernand Khnopff, a leading figure in the International Symbolist movement of the 19th century, founded his work on the theory that emotion and introspection are the basis for aesthetic experiences. He creates symbols and allegories for a variety of such existential themes as time, fate, religion, sexuality, art, and death through his depiction of women, silent landscapes, flowers, mirrors, and masks. Along with Khnopff’s work, the exhibition featured pieces by his contemporaries, Félicien Rops and Jean Delville. The exhibition is co-sponsored by the Smart Gallery and the Consul General for Belgium, Chicago. Barry Friedman, Ltd., New York, organized the show and lent some of the works on display. A panel discussion on aspects of the Symbolist movement accompanied the exhibition, as well as a gallery lecture given by Sura Levine, a University of Chicago Department of Art Ph.D. candidate. Following its exhibition at the Smart, the show will travel to Barry Friedman, Ltd., and to the Delaware Art Museum. 

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