De Halle, Geel, Belgium
4 April 2025 – 1 June 2025
Group exhibition
Fairy tales have captured the human imagination for centuries. Originally passed down as oral stories from generation to generation, they were often raw, unrefined, and deeply reflective of the societies in which they originated. Unlike the polished versions we know today, early fairy tales were filled with harsh realities—stories of violence, moral dilemmas, death, and loss that carried clear warnings or lessons for their audiences. These tales were not only meant to entertain but also to educate, caution, and reflect the challenges of life.
As fairy tales evolved from oral traditions into literary works, they underwent a process of cultural adaptation. Over time, their darker, grittier elements were softened or omitted entirely, aligning with societal norms and expectations. What were once adult narratives transformed into whimsical, child-friendly stories designed to enchant and inspire the imagination. Yet, beneath their polished surfaces, the shadows of their original forms remain, continuing to influence our collective psyche.
From April 4 to June 1, the Halle in Geel will transform into a magical and intriguing realm with
Once Upon a Time…, an exhibition curated by Tom Liekens and Glenn Geerinck. This multidisciplinary exhibition explores the enduring influence of fairy tales and their profound impact on visual art. Featuring a diverse group of artists, the exhibition examines how fairy tales continue to shape and inspire contemporary artistic practices.
Through a mix of historical works and modern reinterpretations, the exhibition highlights the tension between the moralizing intent of traditional fairy tales and their contemporary adaptations.
Visitors will encounter paintings, sculptures, video works, and installations that explore the timeless themes of fairy tales: love and loss, innocence and corruption, fantasy and reality.