Het Sanatorium Transformed into Art Hub for 11 Artists in Ronse

Ronse (Eurotoday) – A group of 11 artists, including Sander Buyck, are breathing new life into the historic Heynsdaele sanatorium in Ronse by transforming it into a vibrant cultural center with artist studios, exhibitions, and residencies. The official opening is scheduled for September 2025.

The collective, which has formed a non-profit organization named Het Sanatorium, has secured a 40-year lease on the Heynsdaele sanatorium located in the East Flanders town of Ronse, Belgium. Their mission is to repurpose the former healthcare facility into a dynamic hub for artistic creation and community engagement.

Although the artists have already begun using the building for creative work, they are now formally setting up studios and workshops in the former patient rooms. Their vision is to foster a collaborative environment where artists can create, exhibit, and engage with the public through events and cultural programming.

“We all have our studio and communal space here, and will hold exhibitions there, among other things,”

explains artist Sander Buyck.

Meet the Artists Behind the Project

The group of 11 multidisciplinary artists includes Sander Buyck, Stijn De Poureg, Charlie De Voet, Katrien Eeckhout, Manon Soetens, Karel Thienpont, Anke Vandemeulebrocke, Fobin Vermeersch, Tim Volckaert, Thibault Carlier, and Stef De Medts. Ranging from emerging talents to more established figures, they represent a diverse spectrum of artistic practices.

The members emphasized that although their styles may differ, they share a common passion for art and collaboration. The younger artists contribute fresh perspectives and energy, while the more experienced members offer mentorship and guidance. Together, they aim to learn from and inspire each other in a shared creative space.

Ronse was chosen for the project due to its affordability compared to cities like Ghent and its scenic location in the Flemish Ardennes. The area’s natural surroundings also provide a peaceful and inspiring environment for artistic work.

“Everyone comes from the south of the province, so there is a link with each other. Everything has to be ready in September,”

adds Buyck.

The Heynsdaele sanatorium, nestled in the woods near Kluisbergen, dates back to 1924 and was originally built to treat tuberculosis patients. In the late 1960s, it was converted into a school, which operated until its closure in 2020. After several years of vacancy, the historic site is now being reimagined as a center for artistic innovation and community involvement.