Esprit Ouvert Sculpture

Gazing upon Esprit Ouvert, one can’t help but feel a sense of wonder. This striking sculpture, crafted by Tapta in 1997, dominates the elliptical plaza where Boulevard Emile Jacqmain meets Boulevard Simon Bolivar. Esprit Ouvert, meaning “Open Spirit,” is more than just a static piece of art. It’s a dynamic interplay of light and reflection, a conversation between steel and sky. The sculpture’s form is a deconstructed triangle. A bold arch has been extracted and repositioned at a 135-degree angle, disrupting the expected geometry. The satin black finish of the steel absorbs the surrounding light, while the gleaming metallic edges catch and reflect the world around it. Tapta envisioned a mirrored surface, creating an ever-changing reflection of the Esprit Ouvert sculpture itself. The lighting design is an integral part of the artwork. It was specifically designed by Tapta to play against the black steel. The light sources illuminate the sculpture, casting dynamic shadows and creating new, ephemeral forms. Commissioned by Proximus (formerly Belgacom) and WTC nv, Esprit Ouvert is now under the stewardship of the Brussels-Capital Region. The sculpture sits within a shallow, reflective pool of water, just 4 cm deep, amplifying the play of light and shadow. This reflective pool further emphasizes the sculpture’s connection to its surroundings, mirroring the sky and the surrounding cityscape. As you stand before Esprit Ouvert, consider its location. This bustling intersection, once part of the extended Boulevard Emile Jacqmain, was renamed Boulevard Roi Albert II in 1999 after significant renovations. The landscaping, designed by Jacques Wirtz between 1995 and 1997, incorporates several art installations, with Esprit Ouvert as a centerpiece. The sculpture stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to art and its integration into the urban landscape. Esprit Ouvert invites contemplation and reflection, a beacon of open-mindedness amidst the city’s vibrant energy.