On Monday 24 August, between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, artist Vaast Colson will open Helena Sculpture during a special public moment in the Round Room.
The installation is opened only once a year: on 24 August, Helena’s birthday.
Annual opening
Visitors can meet the artist, make a rubbing and have it signed by Vaast Colson.
Everyone is welcome.
About Helena Sculpture
In his work, Vaast Colson constantly questions the relationship with the public and the authentic or inauthentic mysticism surrounding the artist’s existence.
In 2004, Colson created Helena: The Paintings Martin Couldn’t Paint Anymore, a series of 12 portraits of the 15-year-old daughter of German artist Martin Kippenberger (1953–1997). It is a direct reference to Kippenberger’s work Jaqueline: The Paintings Pablo Couldn’t Paint Anymore, which he created in 1996 as a tribute to Pablo Picasso and his wife Jaqueline.
Colson’s work is also a homage, but to Kippenberger. At the same time, it is an exercise in trying to get closer to the legacy of his idol by copying Kippenberger’s working method, technique and use of materials.
Since 2006, the series of portraits has been preserved in Helena Sculpture, an installation that serves as a vault. The box may be opened only once a year: on 24 August, Helena’s birthday.
Practical information
Date: Monday 24 August 2026
Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Muhka, ground floor, Round Room (collection presentation)
Address: Leuvenstraat 32, 2000 Antwerp
Language: Dutch
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible
Admission: free. No reservation required.
Image Credits
Installation view featuring Helena Sculpture (2006) by Vaast Colson, photo: M HKA, 2026