MASEREEL

On Friday, September 26, the first edition of Crit & Connect took place, a unique day where 18 visual artists from various disciplines came together to share their work, receive feedback, and build new connections. The day was entirely focused on meeting, exchange, and inspiration.

Individual Crit Sessions
Each participant had the opportunity for two in-depth one-on-one sessions of approximately 45 minutes. These sessions were held with Visiting Curators – Nicolaus Schafhausen, Stella Lohaus, and Sorana Munsya – and Visiting Artists – Willem Oorebeek, Kelly Schacht, and Melissa Gordon. Participants were able to critically reflect on their practice, refine ideas, and discover new perspectives.

Demos & Workshops
Between the crit sessions, participants explored new techniques through hands-on demonstrations of RISO printing, laser cutting, and UV printing. These workshops provided inspiration to apply techniques directly in their own practice and to experiment with materials and processes.

Peer Meetings & Networking
Beyond the individual sessions, there was ample opportunity for exchange among the artists themselves. Ideas were shared, experiences discussed, and new connections formed. The MASEREEL team also guided participants through the extensive graphic workshop, showcasing various workspaces and techniques.

Participating Artists
Mya Berger, Nancy La Rosa, Karen Vantvelt, Chiara Di Luca, George Dhauw, Tim Bruggeman, Erisa Bakalli, Hadrien Loumaye, Chantal van Rijt, Carla Martin, Sam De Buysere, Elise Lepage, Amir Kojasteh, Yasaman Nozari, Anne Beumer, Rachel Daniëls, Jelle Martens, and Sébastien Bovie.

Crit & Connect builds on the inspiring encounters that have been central to MASEREEL’s residency program for years. This first edition offered a unique opportunity for artists to deepen their practice, test ideas, and gain new input, highlighting the value of a day dedicated to focus, feedback, and meaningful exchange.