What happens when you wear a work of art as a costume?
Artist Lydia McGlinchey draws on Lee Bul’s work in a short performance. Art historian Piet Van Hecke then introduces Lee Bul’s early performance work and considers its relationship to the development of performance art.
What is FOCUS?
One Sunday a month, we take a closer look at a theme in the work of Lee Bul. FOCUS takes place at Muhka during the exhibition Lee Bul: From 1998 to Now. Each guest brings a different perspective on her work through a performance, conversation or talk, drawing on their own practice. You then join a guide in the exhibition to look more closely at selected works.
About the theme
In the 1980s, Lee Bul wore her soft sculptures as costumes in performances, questioning ideas about appearance and femininity. She later explored the body in her Cyborgs and Monsters series, at the boundary between the natural and the artificial.
About Lydia McGlinchey
Lydia McGlinchey combines polished pop vocals with raw screams. Both inhabit a single body, constantly alternating. Her work echoes Lee Bul’s fascination with ideal forms that embody their own impossibility.
Practical information
- Date: Sunday 6 December 2026
- Time: 14:00–16:00
- Location: Muhka, Leuvenstraat 32, 2000 Antwerp
- For: ages 16 and over
- Price: included in your museum ticket
- Booking: the booking link will be available soon.
Coming to FOCUS with children
Coming with children? During the activity, they can play, read or join a short workshop in the Salon, supervised by a member of staff.
After your visit
Café and roof terrace
After your visit, you can have a drink or a bite to eat in the museum café, alongside a mural by Keith Haring. Or, in fine weather, sit out on the green roof terrace overlooking the Scheldt. While you’re there, take a moment to sit in the Skyspace by James Turrell.
A day in the Zuid
After your visit to Muhka, spend a little longer in the Zuid neighbourhood. Walk through Zuidpark, right outside the museum, or stroll along the Scheldt quays. Coming by car? You can park in the underground car park beneath Zuidpark. Our page includes a city map with more tips.
