A Printmakers' Haven: The Frans Masereel Centre in Belgium

Yes, that's your sign that you've found the Frans Masereel Centre(FMC). It's unmistakable, as is the residency where  artists come from all over the world to work and create new images. 

I was contacted by the Centre's Director after posting the article on Frans Masereel and felt it appropriate to give you the rest of the story about the non-profit center which was founded in 1972, and named for one of Belgium's most revered artists. 

The Masereel Centre offers a unique setting outside the village of Kasterlee, which is situated just west of Antwerp and Brussels. The Centre boasts an enormous print studio in the round with open lighting. It's enough to make any print maker want to drool all over themselves. 

The working environment is friendly and artists have ample space to spread out to do small, or very large, work. They are fully equiped for printing Intaglio, Silkscreen and Lithography, and for those artists unfamiliar with the printmaking process, there are expert printers available for consultation. 

There are different types of residencies for artists, writers, curators, so check out their website for details http://www.fransmasereelcentrum.be/, but generally Artist residencies run an average length of four weeks up to two months, depending on the type of residency. Essayists and researchers can work for up to one month.

For artists wanting to stay on premises, the Centre provides charming A-frame cottage, and the grounds are a pleasant walk when taking a break from the studio. Each cottage has a kitchen, living room, 2 bedrooms, and artists may elect to bring along an Assistant. Families are also welcome, and bicycles are provided for each artist if they want to tour the area on their own.

Each artist pays 105 Euros/per week for their stay, which go toward financing Curatorial projects. Artists are responsible for transportation to and from the Centre and transport of their supplies. They are also asked to donate one work of art produced during their stay to the FMC archives, which are regularly exhibited.

Residency applications are generally due each January, so think and plan ahead for next year.

For more information to the FMC, here is their contact address:

Frans Masereel Centre

Masereeldijk 5 

2460 KASTERLEE

BELGIUM

Tel.: +32 (0)14 85 22 50/52

Fax: +32 (0)14 85 05 91

Artists' Phone : +32 (0)14 85 22 48