It’s a search for balance between shape and colour. That’s how the artist Oli-B described his work. Here, on the corner of Rue du Tocsin and Rue Jenneval, stands his colourful fresco, “The First Date”.
This vibrant mural is more than just paint on a wall. It is a testament to Brussels’ thriving street art scene. It also reflects the community spirit of the Squares neighborhood.
In October 2017, the residents’ committee of this neighborhood commissioned Oli-B to create “The First Date”. Already a rising star in the art world, Oli-B had made his mark in Flanders, Wallonia and even New York. Yet he hadn’t yet left his artistic footprint in his home city.
Karine Lalieux, the alderwoman for culture of the City of Brussels, extended the Parcours Street Art initiative to the Squares district. She recognized the mural’s potential impact. “The residents gave the artist a wonderful welcome,” she said. “The experience was such a success that I’d be keen to repeat it if another wall becomes available in this neighborhood.”
“The First Date” now adorns the wall of a house. Five young homeowners, admirers of Olivier Binamé, aka Oli-B, recently acquired it. They were enthusiastic about having his work on their property.
Oli-B created a positive, dreamlike painting with this fresco. The abstract composition invites viewers to interpret the artwork through their own experiences. He wants people to use their personal references, cultures, and histories.
Brussels embraced the comic strip culture. In 1991, the city began a project. Blank walls would showcase giant murals of comic book characters. This project aimed to celebrate Belgium’s comic strip history. “The First Date” joined more than forty frescoes. They transformed the city center and surrounding neighborhoods.
Today, Brussels prides itself as the capital of comic strips. You can explore more than 50 comic murals throughout the city. Discover the characters and creators of famous comics. The city adds two to three new murals each year. The tradition continues to flourish.
The story of comics in Brussels dates back to the 1920s. Hergé created the first drawings of Tintin. Despite challenges during the Second World War, artists continued to create their own heroes and stories. Franco-Belgian series such as Lucky Luke, The Smurfs, Asterix, and Tintin achieved worldwide success.
“The First Date” stands as a modern example of Brussels’ commitment to public art. It represents a blend of artistic expression and community engagement. As you stand before this mural, consider the balance between shape and color that Oli-B sought to achieve. Allow your own experiences to guide your interpretation. Perhaps you’ll find your own meaning within the dreamlike composition.