Troubadour

Clem Le Fou in Kuurne, 5th of October 2025.

Good news for anyone passionate about the work and adventures of Clément Jacques‑Vossen: the first comprehensive monograph on this artist is on its way.

No one less than the renowned art scholar and curator Hans Theys took up the pen to assemble a richly illustrated, in‑depth, multi‑layered book.

Inside you’ll find all of Clément’s important works, along with numerous anecdotes and memories from his exhibitions, openings, travels, and residencies—including the Venice Biennale and Witklipfontein—testimonies from colleagues, and much more.

Because Clément is one of those artists whose life and work are intensely intertwined, this book will become a sparkling account of his unique artistic journey.

Graphic residency at Monsieur Canard, July 2025.

The book spans 240 pages, measures 23 × 27.8 cm, is printed on sturdy, wood‑free matte 150 g paper, and bound in a cardboard cover with foil stamping and blind embossing. The publication date is mid‑February 2026.

Below is a preview of the project in development, straight from the creators, without any contractual commitment regarding the final result.

Passionate about Clément’s life and work? We’re pleased to present two special editions to support this ambitious project.

Limited edition of 25 copies with etching

The first is a limited run of 25 books featuring a beautiful numbered and signed etching (220 × 268 mm) in which you’ll encounter, among other things, a chimera and … the troubadour, two iconic figures from Clément’s oeuvre. Click here if you’d like to claim one of the 25 copies: the price is currently €495 per copy but will rise to €750 after the pre‑sale. Shipping costs €12 within Belgium, or you can opt for pick‑up in Ostend, Leuven, or Bevekom.

Extra limited edition of 5 copies
with hand‑coloured drypoint

Additionally there is an edition of 5 numbered and signed copies accompanied by a unique hand‑coloured drypoint. This drypoint is the very first engraving Clément created last summer during his residency in Massugas (France). It is filled with references to his familiar world of mythical creatures, folklore, fairy tales, and heraldry, and even includes himself alongside … a Romanian ballerina. Each of the five copies is hand‑coloured and embellished with margin drawings like a medieval manuscript; every copy is different and unique. At the moment you can reserve one for €995; after the pre‑sale the price becomes €1 250 (assuming any copies remain).

Regular edition

Finally, the book is also available in the regular version during the pre‑sale at a special price of €69 instead of €79.

Belgian National Holiday in Massugas (F), 2025.

About the author

Hans Theys (born 1963) is a Belgian teacher, researcher, writer, and exhibition maker specializing in contemporary visual art. After earning his master’s degree in philosophy (1987, Vrije Universiteit Brussel), he taught at the academies of Antwerp and Ghent while also working as a freelance curator for institutions such as S.M.A.K. and the Middelheim Museum in Antwerp. Theys is known for his extensive collaborations with artists like Panamarenko and Walter Swennen; he has authored and designed more than forty books in close partnership with contemporary artists. He has also published hundreds of essays, interviews, and reviews in catalogues, journals, and other publications, making him a prominent voice in both the Belgian and international art worlds. Recently he released a monumental monograph on sculptor Joost Pauwaert. His own works include L’ange du bizarre and Façadeklasjer, two earlier brochures about Clément Jacques‑Vossen. His versatile role connects the theoretical and practical aspects of contemporary art, establishing him as an influential figure.

Clément Jacques-Vossen and Hans Theys at Galerie Esther Verhaeghe, 8th of April 2025.