A beautiful new artwork "The dancing couple" brings a smile to the faces of the residents of the Ter Vlierbeke residential care center. Commissioned by Zorg Leuven, Street art organization Treepack brightened up the location with a participatory mural.
A new street art piece has been unveiled in Leuven, created by Leuven artist collective Treepack and Antwerp artist Simon Mannerts. The artwork, measuring no less than 60m² stretches on the wall next to the entrance hall at residential care center Ter Vlierbeke, and is a collaboration between Zorg Leuven and Treepack.
"The Dancing Couple" depicts a contagious moment of joy that is still recognizable today in assisted living facilities. Says Lisa Roggeband, project manager at Treepack. "The image brings a smile to residents' faces. It is a simple but strong image that inspires young and old alike. It lets residents dream away to fond memories and perhaps encourages them to take a dance step outdoors." Says Lisa.
Participation preceded this project. Thus, a working group was composed with different people involved in the residential care center. "After a creative brainstorming session, Antwerp artist Simon Mannerts was chosen. Together with Treepack, he interacted with the working group and made a number of designs, of which this design was preferred. " Says Lies van Campenhout of Zorg Leuven.
Simon Mannaerts, also known as SIMO is a talented street artist with a versatile style. He is known for both his portraits in oil paint and his large-scale murals with spray paint and acrylics. His style functions between realism and illustrative realism with a minimalist touch. He draws his inspiration from people, animals, movement and psychology. So an ideal match for this project!
"The artwork is an important addition to the facade of Ter vlierbeke. In the local service center on the site, people still dance regularly. Now you can see those happy moments reflected in the artwork on the facade. It shows the dedication of the staff and stimulates creativity among the residents. It is definitely worth a visit for all art lovers and admirers of street art". says Bieke Verlinden, president of Zorg Leuven.