Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Alexander Tuteleers organized an outdoor art exhibition in Zwin Nature Park featuring 14 bronze statues valued at €26.5 million. Local authorities later removed the sculptures, leading to legal disputes and criticism from Tuteleers and Mayor Jan Morbee.
Two years ago, Alexander Tuteleers organized an outdoor art exhibition in Zwin Nature Park near Knokke-Heist, Belgium. The two giant bronze hare sculptures were the main ones. Each is 14 meters tall, set against the park’s beautiful natural scenery. This combination attracted many visitors. Tuteleers made sure to follow all environmental rules and obtained the necessary permits, as Zwin is a protected area known for its rich wildlife.
What role does art play in nature conservation at Tuteleers’ exhibition?
The exhibition led discussions about the connection between large art and nature conservation. Many visitors were impressed by the size and meaning of the bronze hares. The organizer ensured all necessary permits were obtained, highlighting the importance of balancing artistic expression with environmental protection. The event showed that carefully planned and with respect for nature, large art installations can exist in protected areas.
The local leaders, led by former mayor Piet De Groote, rejected Tuteleer’s plan for a sculpture walk because other groups had similar ideas. Although he initially received a permit, it was canceled due to poor proposals. Tuteleer tried again but was denied a new permit, so he went ahead with the walk anyway. The statues were placed on private land with permission from the Agency for Nature and Forests, but local authorities claimed they were on public land and removed them, causing damage. A British company then filed a complaint, and the Council of State ruled in their favor, stating the local leaders had no right to stop the event and that taking the statues away was illegal.
According to Organizer Alexander Tuteleer, the exhibition by artist Barry Flanagan was the biggest and most beautiful ever. The main piece was Flanagan’s well-known bronze hare statue called ‘Hospitality,’ which is displayed in the Zwin. This open-air exhibition had 14 statues worth 26.5 million euros. Tuteleer criticized the local government for removing the statues, saying they wouldn’t have been damaged if they had been left there. He hopes the right people will take responsibility soon. Mayor Jan Morbee (GBL) mentioned that this issue started with the previous mayor and said he would examine it closely. He emphasized the need for discussions to find a good solution.
