The Low Countries are well-known for their famous painters, such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Mondriaan, Karel Appel and Luc Tuymans. This rich tradition in the visual arts resonates strongly in literature as well, both in the 'Dutch Golden Age' and in the twentieth century.

This lecture explores this connection, highlighting genres that crossed the borders of literature and art (like the emblematic poem), artists working in both disciplines, and literary movements inspired by (or critically reflecting on) painting and the visual arts.