From Strangers to Shared Stories
by Clémence Iryimanivuze
A Nostalgic Art Class Feeling
During high school, I had a single art class where we explored different forms of creativity. I vividly remember being the one student endlessly fascinated by each topic, eager to dive deeper into every discussion. Attending Creative Encounters brought back that nostalgic spark, as if I had stepped once more into my favorite classroom. Surrounded by fellow art lovers, I felt the joy of sharing curiosity, inspiration, and passion for artistic discovery.
Lost, Tired, and Accidentally in the Right Place
After my nine-to-five job, I plunged into the overwhelming rhythm of Brussels’ public transport. My energy felt drained, hovering somewhere below thirty percent. By the time I reached De Grid, my headspace was cluttered and tired. In that haze, I accidentally walked into the wrong workshop. Yet this twist of fate led me to the warm welcome of Chibuye better known as Chichi, whose presence instantly shifted the tone of my evening.
Books, Bridges, and Art Outside Media
From our very first encounter, I felt Chichi’s passion for hosting - it was in the effortless flow of our conversation. Soon after, Valary and Samuel joined us and together we set the tone for the workshop. Throughout the evening, Chichi displayed a selection of books she had collected from the artists we were about to discover. That’s how we learned that Muntpunt actually holds an art collection in its library. Sometimes I wonder if I live under a bridge, because this was such a revelation for someone who loves exploring art outside of media. Visit the library, ask for the art section it’s accessible, inspiring, and a great way to save some money too.
From 0 to 100 Real Quick
Can you already tell that after this revelation my energy level started to rise higher and higher? It truly did! The program gave us the opportunity to travel the world through photography, meeting artists from different places and perspectives. From Richard Billingham in the UK to The African Gaze curated by Amy Sall, and many more, the experience felt like savoring a plate full of diverse and vibrant flavors.
Strangers, Prompts, and the Wholesome Truth of Art
We had the opportunity to share our thoughts through different prompts, and for a Tuesday evening we found ourselves diving surprisingly deep into reflection. Though we were only a small group, there was so much to talk about, and I cherished this moment. Just thirty minutes earlier we had been complete strangers, yet here we were vulnerable and honest with one another, all thanks to art. What a wholesome feeling. We explored many fascinating topics, but one that truly stood out to me was the idea that many artists don’t even label themselves as “artists.” They simply do what they love, coming from places just like you and me. Art is everything and everywhere, carried in the hands of ordinary people who simply do what they love.
Art as a Bridge Between Us
Looking back, Creative Encounters was more than just a workshop, it was a reminder of how art connects us. From chance meetings to deep reflections, from global photography to hidden treasures in the library, every moment carried the spark of discovery. What began as an ordinary Tuesday evening turned into an extraordinary journey of curiosity, vulnerability, and shared passion. And that, to me, is the true power of art: it brings strangers together and makes us feel at home.
Who is Chibuye Changwe?
Chibuye is an art writer and avid gallivanter that discovers and reflects about the work, the world and the ideas that drive some of her favorite artists. With ARt Gallivant she explores how art opens up conversations about world-making. The live conversations are an extension of her podcast Creative Encounters, where she speaks with artists about their practice and how it reflects their worlds. Each conversation is supported by a set of ARt Gallivant conversation cards drawn from Muntpunt’s collection, offering participants tangible prompts for reflection.