Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgian Comic Strip Center
Name	Belgian Comic Strip Center
Native name	Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée, Belgisch Stripcentrum
Established	1989
Location	Brussels, Belgium
Type	Comics museum

Belgian Comic Strip Center. Housed within a magnificent Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, the institution is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Belgian comics. It functions as both a museum and a research center, showcasing the art form from its origins with pioneers like Hergé to contemporary creators. The center attracts enthusiasts and scholars alike, solidifying Brussels' status as a global capital of the ninth art.

History

The concept for a dedicated comics museum began in the early 1980s, championed by key figures in the Belgian cultural scene. A pivotal moment came with the acquisition of the former Waucquez department store, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture designed by Victor Horta. After extensive restoration led by architect Jean Delhaye, a protégé of Horta, the museum opened its doors in 1989. Its founding was supported by the Belgian government and prominent cartoonists, including Bob de Moor, who helped shape its initial vision. The center's establishment coincided with a renewed international appreciation for the Franco-Belgian comics tradition, following the successes of Tintin and The Smurfs.

Building and architecture

The center is located in the historic Waucquez department store, a landmark building completed in 1906. It is considered one of the seminal early works of Victor Horta, a founding father of Art Nouveau. Key architectural features include a stunning central hall flooded with natural light from a vast glass roof, supported by slender iron columns—a hallmark of Horta's innovative use of materials. The meticulous restoration preserved original elements like the ornate staircases, mosaics, and decorative ironwork. This marriage of architectural heritage with comic art creates a unique environment, celebrating both Belgian design and narrative artistry under one roof.

Permanent collection

The permanent collection offers a comprehensive journey through the history of Belgian comics. It features original artwork, manuscripts, and artifacts from legendary series such as Tintin by Hergé, Spirou by André Franquin, and Lucky Luke by Morris. Exhibits detail the creative process, from initial sketches to final color plates, and explore the evolution of iconic characters like Blake and Mortimer and Nero. The museum also highlights the importance of publications like the weekly Spirou and Tintin, which launched countless careers. A section is devoted to the artistry of comic book coloring and the role of studios like Studio Hergé.

Temporary exhibitions

The institution regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore specific themes, artists, or international comic traditions. These have included major retrospectives on creators like Edgar P. Jacobs, Willy Vandersteen, and Jean-Claude Servais, as well as thematic shows on subjects like science fiction in comics or the influence of American comic books. The exhibitions often feature loans from other institutions like the Musée du Louvre or the British Library, and collaborate with festivals such as the Angoulême International Comics Festival. These dynamic displays ensure repeat visits and connect the Belgian tradition to global trends in graphic storytelling.

Library and documentation center

Housing one of the world's most extensive comics archives, the center's library and documentation center is a vital resource for researchers, students, and professionals. Its holdings include over 140,000 comic albums, thousands of periodicals like Pilote and À Suivre, and a vast collection of original artwork, press clippings, and scholarly works. The facility provides access to rare documents related to the Brussels School of comics and the Marcinelle school. It actively collaborates with academic institutions and participates in projects with the European Union to digitize and preserve comic heritage.

Influence and recognition

The center has played a crucial role in elevating comics to a recognized art form, influencing cultural policy in Belgium and across Europe. It has been instrumental in the creation of the Comic Book Route in Brussels, featuring murals of characters like Broussaille and Cubitus. The institution's model has inspired similar initiatives, such as the Comics Art Museum in Angoulême. Its work in preservation and education has been recognized by awards and partnerships with organizations like UNESCO. The center remains a pilgrimage site for fans and a testament to the enduring global impact of Franco-Belgian comics.

Category:Comics museums Category:Museums in Brussels Category:Art Nouveau architecture in Belgium Category:Cultural organizations based in Belgium