Guiding principles
Located in the heart of Ghent’s vibrant arts district, Arts Centre VIERNULVIER is a Flemish Arts Institution that serves as a dynamic hub for over 350,000 annual visitors. Operating out of a stunning centenary monument, it offers a diverse program featuring performance art, theatre, music, and debate.
As a central platform within a dense network of creators, VIERNULVIER bridges the gap between the arts and global communities. It functions simultaneously as a welcoming meeting place and a laboratory for production, participation, and reflection. By fostering cross-pollination across sectors, the centre continues its proud legacy of innovation and social engagement. Informed by an ever-evolving world, VIERNULVIER remains a forward-thinking space dedicated to the future of contemporary culture.
History
Constructed between 1910 and 1914, De Vooruit was originally a "People’s House" for Ghent’s socialist movement, designed by Ferdinand Dierkens to foster workers' intellectual growth. Throughout both World Wars, the building endured German occupation and requisitioning before returning to the community in 1946 as a bustling social beehive.
Following a period of severe physical decline in the 1970s, volunteers launched a rescue mission in 1982, transforming the protected monument into a progressive artistic centre. In 2022, the organisation officially rebranded as Arts Centre VIERNULVIER to distinguish itself from the political party of the same name, though the historic building retains its original title. Today, it remains a vital "cultural temple" dedicated to social engagement, welcoming 350,000 visitors annually to the heart of Ghent.
Building and facilities
Housed in a breathtaking centenary monument, VIERNULVIER is an architectural landmark in Ghent’s arts district. Originally designed as a "socialist palace," the complex blends historic grandeur with modern functionality. Its diverse facilities cater to a wide range of cultural activities, from the grand Theaterzaal and the atmospheric Balzaal for concerts and performances to intimate studios for rehearsals and residencies.
At its heart lies the VIERNULVIER Café, a bustling meeting place celebrated for its high ceilings and vibrant terrace. The building also features specialised spaces for debates, literature, and film, making it a versatile "lab" for artists. As a protected monument, the venue seamlessly integrates heritage with cutting-edge production technology, providing a unique, inspiring environment for both creators and visitors.
