Collectionner: Victor Arwas & Félicien Rops

In 2026, the Rops Museum’s collection will be enriched by an exceptional loan. The drawings, prints and rare books collected by Victor Arwas (1937–2010) throughout his career are being loaned to Namur by his widow, Gretha, who continued her husband’s work through their London gallery, the Victor Arwas Gallery. As early as 1972, Victor began exhibiting his own Rops collection in museums and galleries and writing texts for catalogues (Rotterdam 2005, Denmark 2008). The museum repeatedly called upon his gallery to enrich its own thematic temporary exhibitions or exhibitions abroad (Quebec, Japan, Europe). These regular collaborations have fostered mutual trust and appreciation. A selection of 130 works from the 550 that Victor Arwas has collected over the years and on various occasions is presented to you in this exhibition, organised to celebrate this event.

‘Collectionner: Victor Arwas & Félicien Rops’ offers an opportunity to explore broader issues surrounding collections in greater depth. What are the specific characteristics of a public collection, and how can a private collection complement the understanding of and research into an artist? How can a private collection offer a monographic museum a new perspective on an artist’s oeuvre? Which aspects of Rops’ work appeal to collectors in general, and how do they decide whether a work is worth acquiring? How do they distinguish a genuine work from a forgery, or a rare piece from one of little value? (IN FRANS)