‘Fashion is our Nature’ at Maasmechelen Village

Maasmechelen Village presents a unique collaboration with renowned Belgian landscape artist Jean-Louis Muller. The campaign kicked off on 11 March as part of the tagline ‘Fashion is our Nature,’ of which the Village will revolve around this year.

As many visitors already noticed, 2024 will be a tribute to the green landscape surrounding Maasmechelen Village and the Belgian identity embedded in our ‘nature.’ Muller’s boundless love for nature in his work aligns perfectly with this theme.

Jean-Louis Muller is known for his use of branches from various willow species, creating dreamy and inspiring artworks. Each sculpture is crafted from organic materials and tells a poetic story intertwined with the surrounding landscape.

“The synergy between fashion and nature with a focus on organic and sustainable materials is a growing trend that benefits not only the fashion industry but also the environment,” says Jean-Louis Muller.

A unique vision coming to life in 3 phases

The collaboration with Maasmechelen Village comprises three phases, where Muller brings his vision to life in the heart of the Village. These artworks not only reflect the beauty of the creative process but also emphasize the deep connection between art and the natural environment surrounding the Village.

• The first phase of Muller’s artistic journey at Maasmechelen Village started on 11 March and involves the natural construction around the six-meter-high Manneken Pis, who has been watching over the Village since 2019. Muller used twigs from various birch species, carefully sourced from the Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen next to the Village. The result is a captivating and intriguing installation.

• In the second phase, which started on 1 April, Muller extends his creativity to a unique summer terrace. Visitors can witness the artist at work, discovering his distinctive construction style in the form of a covered terrace structure, with willows flowing as arches from pot to pot. All of this in collaboration with iconic, Ostend pottery Atelier Vierkant.

• The culmination of Muller’s work is achieved in the third phase beginning of June, with the creation of a wonder tree providing shelter for various birds. This creation, made of acacia trunk interwoven with rattan, again emphasizes the connection with the surrounding nature. On warm days, guests can seek shade here while shopping.

A permanent and sustainable collaboration

What makes these art installations particularly special is that they are not merely a temporary presence but are designed with a long-term vision. They will remain permanently in the Village, allowing visitors to continually enjoy the intertwining of art with nature.

The art installations will be on display in Maasmechelen Village until the end of September 2024.

Maasmechelen Village brings together a vibrant mix of contemporary fashion, international gastronomy, exceptional guest services, and unique collaborations with local and international artists – all in a cozy shopping environment inspired by the historical architecture of the region. Visitors can discover an extensive selection of fashion and lifestyle brands at over 100 boutiques, with prices up to 60% below the recommended retail price throughout the year. Additionally, special perks and discounts are reserved for those who become Members of Maasmechemen Village. (you can easily sign up here)

Maasmechelen Village is also known for actively supporting everything Belgian. With an exceptional offering of Belgian fashion and lifestyle brands, the best Belgian chocolate boutiques, a typical Belgian brasserie, and an impressive six-meter-high Manneken Pis statue as a mascot.

For more information visit MaasmechelenVillage.com