xel vervoordt wabi inspirationsThe most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science. ‘The medieval castle of ’s-Gravenwezel exudes an indescribable beauty. Surrounded by its imposing moat and verdant parkland, it has stood undaunted ‘on the outskirts of Antwerp since the twelfth century. Rich in history and romance, it has many an intriguing story to tell. (Over time it has withstood wars, feuds, and the loss of family fortunes. Today it endures asa tribute to the talents of Axel and May. They have instilled in ita sense of magic and wonder. Every aspect oftheir lives at ’s-Gravenwezel is filled with a living art. ‘Under their tenure, this ancient castle has taken on a new energy with its ever evolving collection of art, furniture, and the unique Wabi interiors. Contemporary yet classical, there isthe fecling that these inspirational Wabi rooms have always been part of the castles centuries-old legacy. ‘Axel has skilfully integrated his creations to complement the that often characterized medieval decoration and design. Through his special blend of alchemy, every Wabi room is infused with a timeless, ‘universal beauty—an intrinsic purity that will always retain a contemporary relevance. With their austere elegance, these spaces draw their inspiration not only from traditional, Japanese design but from many other worlds too. For here in this castle different cultures frely collide, Worlds exist within worlds, imalism and simplicityYet these are calm, tranquil rooms that seem to have evolved in a natural, unforced way: ‘understated but salient spaces designed for quiet contemplation and reflection. Everyday sacred places where one can seek solitude and spiritual repose. Although Axel has ensured that old-fashioned comfort has not been overlooked. Cony club chairs and deep sumptuous sofas are contrasted with sparse country furniture ‘that has an individual, if not idiosyncratic, character. ‘None of the furniture offers merely the simple pleasure of relaxing in these surroundings. For there isa lightness and joy in Wabi that not only incites the mind but gladdens the heart. Unassuming and free from embellishments, ostentation, or overworked decoration, these rooms give an uplifting sense of spiritual freedom. his conscious restraint means the understated becomes even more beautiful. Even the imperfections found in everyday objects or furniture take on a special significance. ‘Throughout there is an emphasis on furniture and ornaments that show their patina of age. Peeling paint, bare boards, walls stripped back to a mix of plaster and earth are all prized as.a form of abstract art enhanced by the passage of time. It follows that traditional decorating methods are used everywhere: earthen walls, timber from the estate, and natural fabrics provide tactile textures with warmth and worthiness. Noble organic materials which are fundamental to the Wabi aesthetic. In the diffused light of these rooms we can begin to appreciate more fully the insightful use of shadow in Wabi design and architecture. For within these castle walls everything is softened by shadows. [As described in In Praise of Shadows by Jun'ichird Tanizaki, shadow is significant in defining these spaces. ‘There isa subtlety in shadow that seems to favor the restrained colors and forms of the ‘Wabi interior more than direct light. For shadow is not the absence of light. ‘Merely the diffusion of light by an oblique object. (Often beauty lies not in the thing itself but in the pattern of its shadow. Other relevant stimuli are used to create an analogous interaction. ‘The understated techniques of traditional oriental at are used as a counterpoint to the strength and vigor of contemporary paintings, furniture, and sculpture. A seventeenth-century Japanese screen by Tanyu Kano is in dialogue with a European abstract expressionist canvas by Antoni Tapies on the opposite wall ‘Next to it stands an Asian vase treasured for its crude restoration. A modern Saburo Murakami “peeling” painting from the Japanese Gutai movernent is hung near to a passive thirteenth-century Yuan Dynasty Chinese Lohan seated figure. In another room, a Kazuo Shiraga action painting gives vitality to the muted colors and the unfinished timber of a traditional Japanese-style tokonoma made from wood found in the castle grounds. ‘As Axel underlines, art interacts in a very fundamental way in a Wabi space, adding profundity and intelligence as well as expressing mysticism and emotion. Here, in the Vervoordt family home—the Kasteel van ’s-Gravenwezel—there is an appreciation and mindfulness that beauty is central to a life lived well. ing ae