The Borinage, south-west of Mons in Belgian Hainaut, is a region with a moving mining history. This is clearly visible in the landscape in the form of the many terrils (slagheaps). Karin was attracted by the miners' houses in the hilly streets, the mine ruins and the now overgrown terrils, but she also wanted to get in touch with the inhabitants. So she decided to photograph people in special places. Sons and daughters of miners, artists and writers, café owners, preachers, owners of old mining sites, and a rare self-portrait. The photographs are staged to highlight the Borains.

The exhibition of 30 large photographs is divided between the two Van Gogh houses: la maison Van Gogh in Petit-Wasmes and la maison Van Gogh in Cuesmes where there are large photographs in the garden). There is also a large work of art on display at the ruins of the Marcasse mine, where Van Gogh descended in 1879. Vincent van Gogh stayed in the Belgian Borinage from 1878 to 1880, first as an assistant preacher to the miners. Later he decided to become an artist. He was 27 at the time.

With the support of cc Colfontaine, Fondation Mons 202 and Visit Mons. Prints produced by Milo-Profi photolabo.

From 22 June to 13 October 2024

Maison Van Gogh Cuesmes
3, Rue du Pavillon
7033 Cuesmes (Mons) BE
tue > sun : 10 am - 15:45 pm

Maison Van Gogh Petit-Wasmes
221, Rue Wilson
7340 Petit-Wasmes (Colfontaine) BE
Tue > Sun : 10 am - 4 pm only after reservation on 0492 76 03 03

Charbonnage de Marcasse
7, Sentier de Saint-Ghislain
7340 Petit-Wasmes (Colfontaine) BE

Meet & greet Karin Borghouts:
Sunday 25 August 2024 (11 -13 h. at Cuesmes, 14-16 h. at Petit-Wasmes)
Sunday 29 September 2024
Saturday 12 October 2024 with book presentation by Paul de Moor

Tip: The best way to discover the region is on foot or by bike. Good condition required. There are beautiful views from a slag heap. Van Gogh walks and cycling routes as well as group visits are possible.
Tip: If you want to combine your visit with a visit to Mons (near Cuesmes) or with a visit to Mac's Grand Hornu (near Petit-Wasmes), it is best to visit the Van Gogh houses first, as they close early. Petit-Wasmes is also unstaffed, so make an appointment.

Info Visit Mons

Exhibition photography: Wouter Bollaerts