Open book, closed book

Between the closed book and the turned pages, an entire world unfolds: one where poetry becomes substance, and the book, a work of friendship. The exhibition Open Book, Closed Book invites you to discover the poetry books of Philippe Jones, gathered within the precious collection of Michel Wittock. The latter had the volumes, gifted by the poet, carefully bound by trusted craftsmen, transforming these books into true works of art.

Each book tells far more than a written story: it reveals a universe where the text dialogues with typography, illustrations, the quality of the paper, and the beauty of the binding. These subtle yet essential details extend the poetry and reveal its depth.

From one creation to the next, a wonderful human adventure unfolded: that of friendships, encounters, and twists of fate that nourished these works. Delving into these books is to traverse a myriad of sensibilities and emotions that marked the world of books and poetry in Belgium at the turn of the century.