The iconic swallows from the stained glass dome of the Winter Garden of the Ursulines in Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver have been nominated for a special opportunity. Their graceful forms are part of a finalist design for Brussels Airlines‘ newest‘Belgian Icon‘ aircraft . This means that these beautiful symbols of Belgian art nouveau could soon fly around the world and put the Winter Garden’s rich heritage on the international map.
for Brussels Airlines theme plane
Copyright: Nicolas Bebronne for Brussels Airlines
Until October 11, 2024, the public can vote for their favorite design through the Brussels Airlines website . The five designs with the most votes will be submitted to an external jury, which will choose the winning design. The unveiling of the winning design is scheduled for spring 2025.
More than 900 Creative Submissions
Brussels Airlines’ competition to determine the new “Belgian Icon” attracted a lot of attention. More than 900 creative designers sent in their proposals, focusing on the rich Belgian heritage. In the end, 15 finalists were selected by an internal jury. One of these finalists is Nicolas Bebronne’s design, in which the swallows of the Winter Garden shine. The design brings back into the spotlight the graceful birds from the dome of the Winter Garden, an ode to Belgian art nouveau.
Copyright Paul Jordens
This design not only has aesthetic value, but it also symbolizes the timeless beauty of Belgian architectural heritage. The nomination brings worldwide attention to the Winter Garden of the Ursulines, a gem in Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver. Philippe De Backer, director of the Kempens Landscape Foundation, which manages the site, says: “The opportunity to see the Winter Garden’s swallows take to the skies worldwide fills us with pride. This iconic design puts the architectural splendor of the Winter Garden on the international map. I encourage everyone to vote for this exceptional design to literally give wings to our heritage.“
The Winter Garden: A Masterpiece of Art Nouveau
The Winter Garden of the Ursulines, built in 1900, is an impressive example of Art Nouveau architecture. Originally designed as a reception room for the parents of students at the Ursulines Institute, the Winter Garden is a masterpiece with its colorful stained-glass dome, curved lines and rich decorative details. The structure exudes sophistication and is a testimony to the artistic craftsmanship of the time. The Ursulines deliberately chose this opulent style to put their school on the international map.
Copyright Inneke Gebruers
Over the years, the Winter Garden has become one of the most admired heritage sites in Belgium. Capturing the elegance of the swallows from the dome, Bebronne’s design reminds us of the beauty of Art Nouveau and the influence this style had on Belgian architecture.
Belgian Icons in the Spotlight
In addition to the swallows from the Winter Garden, there are other finalists with iconic designs that highlight Belgian culture. For example, there are designs with references to Manneken Pis, Pigeon racing, explorer Mercator and even Marsupilami. Each design shows a unique aspect of what makes Belgium so special.
“The Belgian icon contest offers the public a unique opportunity to fly their favorite symbols worldwide. Each design represents a piece of our culture and history,” said Philippe De Backer.
Rediscover the Winter Garden: A Fresh Start after Renovation
After years of restoration, the Winter Garden of the Ursulines reopened to the public in May 2023. Stichting Kempens Landschap, which has held the site on long lease since 2017, made the reopening possible with support from Tourism Flanders. The renovation works include the restoration of the historic tile floor, sanitary facilities and reception area, and the creation of a brand new experience trail.
Copyright Inneke Gebruers
Since its reopening, countless visitors have found their way to this magnificent heritage site, which continues to delight art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can now glimpse the grandeur of the Winter Garden and enjoy the refined details that make this place so special. For those who want to discover the Winter Garden for themselves, tickets for 2025 are already available through the website.
Text Verschueren Eddy for Mechelen at its Best