The 10 Most Important Art Galleries in Brussels

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is home to a thriving contemporary art scene. The city boasts a mix of established and emerging art galleries, showcasing both local and international talent. Here are ten of the most important art galleries in Brussels that every art lover should visit.

1. Xavier Hufkens Gallery

Address: 6 Rue St-Georges, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

One of the most influential contemporary art galleries in Brussels, Xavier Hufkens represents both emerging and established international artists.

Highlights:

• Features works by Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin, and Sterling Ruby
• Focuses on contemporary painting, sculpture, and mixed media

Why Visit?

• Represents some of the most important contemporary artists globally
• Frequently hosts large-scale solo exhibitions

2. Almine Rech Gallery

Address: Rue de l'Abbaye 20, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

An internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery showcasing renowned artists.

Highlights:

• Works by Jeff Koons, Julian Schnabel, and Anselm Reyle
• Focuses on contemporary, avant-garde, and conceptual art

Why Visit?

• Features a mix of internationally recognized and emerging artists
• Regularly presents thought-provoking and high-profile exhibitions

3. Galerie Nathalie Obadia

Address: Rue Charles Decoster 8, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

A leading contemporary art gallery known for representing both emerging and established artists.

Highlights:

• Works by Mickalene Thomas, Lorna Simpson, and Fabrice Hyber
• Exhibits a variety of media, from photography to paintings and sculpture

Why Visit?

• Represents major international contemporary artists
• A showcase of cutting-edge and experimental contemporary works

4. Xavier Hufkens - St-Georges

Address: Rue St-Georges 6, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

Another branch of the renowned Xavier Hufkens Gallery, this location offers a different perspective on contemporary art.

Highlights:

• Works by Tracey Emin, Thomas Houseago, and Antony Gormley
• Focuses on avant-garde and modern contemporary art

Why Visit?

• Offers unique and diverse exhibitions throughout the year
• Represents globally recognized contemporary artists

5. Gladstone Gallery

Address: Rue du Grand Cerf 12A, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

A branch of the prestigious New York gallery, showcasing contemporary and avant-garde art.

Highlights:

• Works by Ugo Rondinone, Elizabeth Peyton, and Anicka Yi
• Showcases a variety of disciplines, including sculpture, video, and installations

Why Visit?

• Internationally acclaimed gallery with a cutting-edge program
• Collaborates with top contemporary artists and curators

6. Almine Rech Gallery - Brussels

Address: Rue de l'Abbaye 20, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

A contemporary art gallery that exhibits some of the most important international artists.

Highlights:

• Works by Jeff Koons, Anselm Reyle, and Taryn Simon
• A focus on modern, conceptual, and minimalist art

Why Visit?

• Regularly holds high-profile exhibitions featuring global artists
• A must-visit for contemporary art enthusiasts

7. Harlan Levey Projects

Address: Rue Isidore Verheyden 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium

A contemporary art space supporting emerging and established international artists.

Highlights:

• Focus on conceptual and interdisciplinary art
• Features artists working in video, installation, and experimental media

Why Visit?

• Known for showcasing thought-provoking and innovative works
• A great platform to discover new talents in the contemporary art world

8. Meessen De Clercq

Address: Rue de l’Abbaye 2A, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

A gallery that emphasizes intellectual and research-based contemporary art.

Highlights:

• Works by Patrick Bernatchez, Otobong Nkanga, and Michael Dean
• A strong focus on critical and socially engaged art

Why Visit?

• Unique curatorial approach that highlights artistic research and philosophy
• Regular exhibitions exploring contemporary social and political issues

9. Galerie Greta Meert

Address: Rue du Canal 13, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

A contemporary art gallery with a rich history of showcasing conceptual and minimalistic artists.

Highlights:

• Works by Donald Judd, John Baldessari, and Bernd & Hilla Becher
• Specializes in conceptual and photographic art

Why Visit?

• A leading gallery in the European contemporary art scene
• A strong program featuring photography, painting, and sculpture

10. Alice Gallery

Address: Rue du Pays de Liège 4, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

A dynamic space known for its cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions and urban art.

Highlights:

• Showcases emerging and established international artists
• Works spanning painting, installations, and street art

Why Visit?

• A hub for innovative and experimental contemporary art
• Features street art, graffiti, and contemporary mixed media pieces

Conclusion

Brussels is a thriving hub for contemporary art, with a mix of international and local artists pushing the boundaries of creativity. Whether you're drawn to avant-garde installations, minimalist painting, or thought-provoking conceptual art, these ten galleries provide an essential insight into the Belgian and international art scene.