Exhibition 'The Cult of St George'

'The Cult of St George' shows a selection of works (including paintings, sculptures, drawings and illuminated manuscripts) representing the saint in different forms. The exhibition examines how St George and the dragon are identified today with various battles of humanity against hostile forces, but also and perhaps above all against humanity itself as it seeks to define its destiny.

The success of the cult of St George was considerable, and his fame spread throughout the Western world. He became the emblem of countries and regions in Europe such as England, Portugal, Catalonia and Aragon. A multi-faceted figure, St George was also the patron saint of corporations, of various orders and of many European cities which were placed under his protection.

This success accounts for the multiple depictions to be found in the largest European collections, as well as frequent appearances in popular traditions, which still constitute an intangible heritage that is showcased in this exhibition. Four contemporary artists are invited to show how this myth has retained its meaning even today: David Claerbout, Giuseppe Penone, Luc Tuymans and Angel Vergara Santiago.

Exhibition 'The Cult of St George. Man, Dragon and Death'
MAC'S - Site du Grand Hornu, Boussu
Until January 17, 2016
More info

‘The Cult of St George' is a coproduction by the Fondation Mons 2015 and the MAC'S, in collaboration with Musea Brugge.
Curators are Laurent Busine and Manfred Sellink (Director of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp).

(News item November 10, 2015)