The Leie valley in West-Flanders is filled with art, this summer and autumn. Intermunicipal organisation Leiedal – the regional developer for South West Flanders – has just turned 60. This birthday is celebrated by putting its territory in a festive spotlight. Contrei Live is a unique arts trail around the river Leie (Lys), taking place in the region’s 13 towns and cities. Sixteen artists from Belgium and beyond have created spectacular artworks. People can enjoy them at their leisure, free of charge. Contrei Live lasts up until 26 October.
The 16 artworks make up an intriguing mix of land art, landscape architecture, sound art and kinetic installations, with water as a connecting theme. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the works of international top-notch artists like Hans Peter Kuhn, Matthijs la Roi,Michel Desvigne and many others.
Contrei Live also provides three bicycle routes in the Leie valley, exploring the countryside around Kortrijk and neighbouring villages. For visitors from outside the area this isn’t a problem: renting a bike is easy thanks to a specially designed app. There is also a special art walk, in which visitors are invited to discover the art installations in 10,000 steps. Contrei Live brands itself as a cultural happening inviting people to discover some surprising spots in the Leie valley, preferably by bike or on foot.
One of the artworks on display can be discovered right in the historic heart of Kortrijk. French landscape artist Michel Desvigne designed floating gardens that gently drift in the river Leie. Their backdrop is formed by the iconic medieval Broel Towers. ‘Floating Gardens’ evokes a natural aquatic landscape, a floating island paradise. From the newly reconstructed quays, people can admire the floating gardens, and wonder at the process of creating new forms of urban nature. The work is intended to be permanent, and the ambition is to extend the number of islands in the future.
More information
Visit the official website of Contrei Live for an overview of all the artworks, interactive maps, apps and more.
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