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Museums #6 in Waterloo, Belgium

Folon Foundation

4.7 · 1,668 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation and imagination.
Folon Foundation, Drève de la Ramée 6/A, 1310 La Hulpe, Belgium
Interesting facts
1

The museum is housed in the 'Ferme du Château de La Hulpe', a structure dating back to the 17th century.

2

Jean-Michel Folon personally selected the location and designed the exhibition space before his death in 2005.

3

The foundation features the 'Folon' character, a recurring silhouette wearing a hat and coat often used in the artist's illustrations.

4

The museum collection includes pieces used for the opening credits of the television program 'L'Art et les Hommes'.

5

Many of the sculptures are displayed outdoors within the surrounding Solvay Park.

Overview

The Folon Foundation is a museum dedicated to the work of Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, housed within the restored 17th-century farmstead of the Solvay Castle in La Hulpe. The museum showcases a permanent collection of over 300 works, including watercolors, sculptures, tapestries, and engravings. It is located within the 227-hectare Solvay Park, a protected regional landscape. The exhibition design utilizes light, sound, and mirrors to create an immersive, poetic experience rather than a traditional chronological display. Visitors traverse fifteen rooms designed to mirror the artist's personal philosophy and whimsical artistic language. The site serves as a cultural hub for temporary contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs. It is managed by a private non-profit organization established by the artist himself.

Photo spot

The courtyard of the historic farm building, featuring the 'L'Homme de la Paix' sculpture.

Insider tips

Combine your museum visit with a walk through the surrounding Solvay Park, which is part of the Sonian Forest.

Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore both the museum galleries and the extensive garden sculptures.

Check the museum's official website for current temporary exhibitions that change periodically.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk to the museum from the station; the site is large and the park entrance is separate from the museum building.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet volume within the gallery spaces; photography is generally permitted for personal, non-commercial use without flash.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in spring or autumn to enjoy the gardens at their peak and avoid weekend crowds.
Address
Folon Foundation, Drève de la Ramée 6/A, 1310 La Hulpe, Belgium
50.732, 4.458
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsWatercolors, sculptures, and iconic silhouette illustrations by Jean-Michel Folon
Architectural styleRestored 17th-century Brabantine farm architecture

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in spring or autumn to enjoy the gardens at their peak and avoid weekend crowds..

The courtyard of the historic farm building, featuring the 'L'Homme de la Paix' sculpture.

Close by you'll find Domaine régional Solvay (Château de La Hulpe), Walibi Belgium, Waterloo Battlefield.