STUDIO CATACOMBS
Cultivating a Synthesis of Culture, History, and Entrepreneurship: Unveiling the Artistic Realm of "Catacombs"

Nestled within the industrial precinct of Sint-Truiden, "Catacombs" emerges as a captivating confluence of cultural enrichment, historical resonance, and entrepreneurial dynamism. This expanse of creative ingenuity, encompassing over 1,300 square meters, serves as the repository for a distinctive compendium of contemporary art curated by the versatile Belgian artist, Tom Herck. The prolific workshop not only constitutes a platform for artistic expression but also heralds an avenue for symbiotic collaboration with the national industrial fabric. At its core, "Catacombs" epitomizes the artist's stewardship in fostering innovation on a global scale, intertwining modernity with a profound reverence for legacy and heritage.

The conscious decision of Tom Herck to situate this artistic haven in his native Sint-Truiden underscores a compelling narrative of identity and rootedness. In an era marked by the pervasive trend of urbanization, particularly in regions such as Limburg and other rural expanses across Europe, Herck establishes an intimate and enduring affinity with the fecund soil of Haspengouw. Within the precincts of "Catacombs," a rich tapestry of arresting sculptures and installations unfolds, each masterfully poised to engage with and address the complex tapestry of universal sociocultural concerns. These creations not only beckon as wellsprings of inspiration but also as crucibles that kindle new vistas of artistic creation, collaborative endeavors, and innovative projects.

A sojourn into the depths of "Catacombs" culminates in an immersive odyssey, an odyssey wherein art unfurls as a respite from the cacophony of the external milieu. Here, the intricate labyrinthine pathways of the space coalesce to form a sanctuary for unbridled exploration, where curiosity finds fertile ground, surprise beckons at every juncture, and introspection becomes an instinctive reflex. Through its nuanced interplay of forms, "Catacombs" forges connections across myriad perspectives, weaving a personalized narrative that embarks visitors on an emotional sojourn. From art aficionados and collectors to schools, tourists, and business cohorts, each participant in this aesthetic communion becomes an integral part of an evocative dialogue.

The repository encapsulates a mosaic of (im)material dichotomies—echoes of antiquity juxtaposed against the contemporary, the ephemeral entwined with decay—that serve as defining motifs emblematic of Herck's artistic repertoire. Augmenting the experiential tapestry of "Catacombs" is its educational dimension, a facet underscored by the presence of genuine relics such as 85 million-year-old dinosaur bones. These veritable fragments of the past coalesce with meticulously crafted museum models, entwined seamlessly with installations that have breathed life into earlier ventures such as "Holy Cow," "Decay works," and "EuroVision," among others.

In summation, "Catacombs" stands as a bastion of creative prowess and immersive engagement, where the interplay of culture, history, and entrepreneurial fervor coalesces into an opulent tableau. A pilgrimage to this realm promises an odyssey replete with transformative encounters, offering a veritable balm for the senses and a canvas for profound dialogue—a testament to the indomitable spirit of Tom Herck and his profound artistic vision.

The installation "On Grandmother's Way," created by Tom Herck for Catacombs, serves as a poignant and multifaceted tribute to his grandmother and the complex history and societal attitudes surrounding her life as a "madame" or female pimp. The installation is a deeply personal exploration of family, history, and the intertwining of individual lives with broader cultural narratives.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Tom Herck's grandmother, known as 'Josee De Duvel,' and her eventual suicide provide a rich source of inspiration for the artist. The installation captures the essence of her life and experiences, transporting visitors into a world saturated with colors and nostalgia. The frames on the wall creatively and sometimes satirically reference his grandmother's death, while oriental carpets and the design of the brothel space harken back to a bygone era and the establishment that was named after the movie "Casablanca."

The installation's design, complete with a piano, swing, authentic bar, and sitting area, immerses visitors in the atmosphere of a nostalgic brothel. This design choice encourages visitors to engage with the space, linger, and contemplate the deeper themes being explored. The presence of an authentic human skeleton within a specially crafted coffee table adds a layer of symbolism, alluding to both the concept of resting places and relics.

The placement of the installation near the "Chaussée d'Amour" in Brustem, a well-known area for prostitution, adds further layers of complexity to the work. The neons in the installation, with names like "Club Tropical" and "De Cupido," evoke the ambivalent attitude towards prostitution in society. The installation delves into the dichotomy between societal disapproval and changing views on sexuality, while also resurrecting the atmosphere of a rural brothel as a counterpart to urban prostitution.

The industrial and gritty setting of Catacombs further enhances the impact of the installation. The use of iron bars and fences creates a fight-club-like ambiance, evoking themes of contrast, confinement, and societal boundaries.

Overall, "On Grandmother's Way" is a powerful exploration of personal history, societal attitudes, and the interplay between individual lives and broader cultural narratives. Tom Herck's ability to weave together personal experiences, historical context, and societal commentary creates a thought-provoking and immersive installation that engages visitors on multiple levels.

In the year 2022, Tom Herck undertook the creation of an installation titled "Chateau D'Amour" within the confines of the Castle of Ordingen. Situated in close proximity to the red districts area and in the immediate vicinity of his studio, this location served as a strategic and contextually significant setting for Herck's artistic endeavor.

Special thanx: B&K Strauven.
Pictures: Bart Ramakers, Erik Jamar, Stijn Elshout.
Text: Lara Van Oudenaarde.