The art world says goodbye to Peter Downsborough

Since 1989, Downsborough has lived with his family in a house in Molenbeek, where he also had his own studio. A place where, according to acquaintances, he loved to stay. And this appreciation turned out to be mutual. For example, he was chosen as one of the stars of Molenbeek in 2020.

astonishment

No label can be placed on the work of the versatile artist. The simple materials and compositions of his sculptures are recognizable, often accompanied by the use of short words. By incorporating this play of lines and words into different spaces, the artist made viewers aware of the way they perceive their environment. Sometimes in the city, sometimes within the walls of the gallery.

A good example of this is the work AND/BUT, OP – AND/POUR, ET at the end of Emile Jacqmainlaan. The short words are integrated into frames and a straight black strip that skillfully blends into the overall space.

“You can walk right past it,” says Kurt Snoeks, editor-in-chief of BRUZZ culture magazine. “But once you notice the sculpture, it changes the way you look at your surroundings. His work creates wonder and contemplation.

a dialogue

Downsborough himself said of his art: “More than adapting a space, the work interacts with its environment.” It is an opportunity for him to enter into a dialogue with the public space, but also with the people who are part of it and sometimes unconsciously ignore the many aspects of the street scene. He was happy to accept that the environment of his work on Émile Jacqueminlin changes regularly.

Downsborough didn’t just focus on sculpture. Video, sound and collage were also part of his repertoire, as were the hundred or so books he created of his work. “His Pentax camera was a constant companion. His photography is an important and fundamental part of his artistic practice,” says Snooks.

Downsborough will be remembered as a unique and exceptionally honest artist who took his playing seriously. And who, despite his somewhat reserved nature, always remained sympathetic and accessible. His passing leaves a void, as the many messages of support from fans, colleagues and galleries attest.