Ensor

Step into the eerie and mysterious world of masks, the macabre, and satire as we delve into the unconventional works of Belgian artist James Ensor. Known as an Expressionist before the term existed, Ensor's distinctive style is still highly influential, drawing from a diverse range of themes from Gothic fantasy to Christian symbolism. This enigmatic figure was both an insider and an outsider in the art world, with a disdain for many of his contemporaries. Despite being a trailblazer of modernism, he spent most of his life sequestered in an attic in the coastal town of Ostend.

Despite being elusive, Ensor's vibrant and eerie paintings, prints, and drawings have had a lasting impact on generations of artists. Known for his dark satire, allegory, and innovative lighting, he is also celebrated for his fascination with carnival and performance. This can be seen in his famous work "The Entry of Christ into Brussels in 1889" as well as his collection of self-portraits where he uses masking, travesty, and role-playing to embody characters such as Christ on the Cross and a gender-bending dandy.

In this overview of Ensor, we examine the wide range of imagery he utilized in his unconventional and unsettling work, showcasing key pieces that exemplify his unique style and subject matter.