Founders of Scharpoord Cultural Centre and Library - Fred Bellefroid

Maxim Willemspad 1
,
8300 Knokke-Heist

About the artwork

This work depicts Eugène Mattelaer, Eric Ruysschaert, Antoon Ghekiere and Robert Willems. In bringing them to life, Fred Bellefroid has incorporated objects that best characterised them: Robert Willems’ famous ‘carnachière’ (briefcase), Eric Ruysschaert's ‘segarre’ (cigar) and ‘lavallière’ (cravat), and mayor Mattelaer’s book ‘Nooit de Moed Opgeven’.

In 1966, Dr Mattelaer became mayor, while Eric Ruysschaert became chairman of the local cultural association, with Antoon Ghekiere acting as secretary. With great enthusiasm, insight and eagerness to set to work, they oversaw the construction of the Scharpoord Cultural Centre between 1970 and 1975. Robert Willems had the main library moved to this site and also founded the senior citizens’ council.

About the artist

Artist Fred Bellefroid is best known for his sculpture ‘De kotmadam’ at the Oude Markt square in Leuven. His work often depicts life-like bronze busts and stylised works of people in motion, such as cyclists and dancers.