The creative power of isolation

The Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst in Ghent (S.M.A.K. ), views isolation from a creative perspective. For many, self-imposed isolation is almost the basis of their work. But when it becomes a necessity, the intrinsic part disappears: geographical, political or biological factors force artists to isolate themselves. From 14 May, the exhibition Splendid Isolation will reveal how they have made use of seclusion.

Regardless of the cause, numerous artists embrace the situation to work - whether out of necessity, as an exit strategy, as an indictment or as a testimony. Splendid Isolation brings together a range of stories from international artists who are either currently working in isolation or have worked in isolation in the past. The exhibition ends on 18. September and features works by Adrien Vescovi, Asim Abu Shakra, Danny Bergeman, David Byrd, Derek Jarman, Dom Sylvester Houédard, Eugenio Dittborn, Forrest Bess, Frank Walter, Hélène Amouzou, Hervé Yamguen, Hessie, Irma Blank, Judith Scott, Luciano Perna, Majd Abdel Hamid, Louise Bourgeois, Nalini Malani, Salam Atta Sabri, Sheroanawe Hakihiiwe, Shuvinaai Ashoona and Zehra Dogan.