The new exhibition at the Ensor House focuses on self-portraits and showcases a variety of works that delve deeper into James Ensor’s fascination with self-representation. The self-portrait takes a central role within Ensor’s oeuvre and highlights his introspective exploration. By using mirrors, Ensor created what can be described as a “subjective” representation, where the painter becomes both the subject and the object of his own creation. This intricate interplay between artist, mirror, and viewer underscores the complexity of self-portraiture.

During the exhibition, you can also discover a self-portrait of Ensor and his close friend Augusta Boogaerts from The Phoebus Foundation collection.