Brussels' Renowned Dépendance Gallery Announces Closure After 23 Years
After more than two decades, the acclaimed Dépendance gallery in Brussels, recognized for its distinctive artist-first philosophy, is concluding its operations. This decision, announced through a press release, signals the end of a notable chapter for the gallery that prioritized creative expression and artist relationships above all else.
The End of an Era: Dépendance Gallery Closes After 23 Years in Brussels
In a significant announcement on June 11, 2026, Dépendance, the venerable art gallery situated in Brussels, revealed its decision to cease operations. Co-founded by the artist Michael Callies and former banker Stephan Jaax, the gallery has been a cornerstone of the contemporary art scene for 23 years. The press release issued by the gallery, famously spelled in all lowercase, simply stated, “Galleries come and go. Some are short-lived but leave a clear trace, others endure for decades without changing much. Dépendance has been there for twenty-three years and now we feel it’s time to say good-bye.”
Throughout its history, Dépendance maintained a singular location in Brussels, deliberately resisting the trend of expansion. This focused approach allowed the gallery to cultivate a profound reputation, not only within the local art community but also on an international scale. It was instrumental in propelling its represented artists onto global platforms, facilitating their participation in prestigious events such as the Venice Biennale, Skulptur Projekte in Münster, and Documenta Kassel. Furthermore, Dépendance artists showcased their works in renowned institutions including MoMA in New York, Tate Britain, and the Stedelijk Museum, among many others.
The gallery’s roster comprised approximately 30 artists, many of whom developed connections through the esteemed Städelschule in Frankfurt, where co-founder Michael Callies, a conceptually inclined artist, had studied. Prominent figures like Thomas Bayrle, Michael Krebber, Henrik Olesen, Thilo Heinzmann, Sergej Jensen, and Haegue Yang maintained long-standing affiliations with the gallery. Other celebrated artists represented included Josef Strau, Ed Atkins, Allison Katz, Oscar Tuazon, and Jana Euler.
In a 2020 interview, Callies articulated the gallery's unique ethos, describing it as an extension of his artistic practice. He emphasized a deep engagement in the exhibition-making process, often due to budgetary constraints, and highlighted the crucial role of trust with artists. This approach allowed artists the freedom to pursue their creative visions without the pressure of immediate commercial success—a stark contrast, Callies noted, to the challenges faced by many emerging galleries today. He believed that the gallery provided a space for creation and artistic exploration.
Following the announcement, the Brussels art community reacted with palpable sadness. Jan Mot, a respected Brussels dealer, expressed the collective sentiment on the gallery’s Instagram page, calling the news "really sad" and acknowledging Dépendance as an "important and inspiring place" for which many were grateful. When questioned about the specific reasons behind the closure, the gallery chose to let its official statement, and its inherent ambiguity, speak for itself, aligning with its long-held spirit of subtle communication. The gallery confirmed a transitional phase for administrative closure, with its website slated to remain active as a comprehensive archive.
The closure of Dépendance leaves a significant void in the international art landscape, reminding us of the transient nature of even the most influential cultural institutions. Yet, its unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and the deep relationships it fostered with artists underscore a powerful model for galleries worldwide. This event prompts reflection on the evolving dynamics of the art market and the enduring value of spaces that champion creative freedom above all. As the art world moves forward, the legacy of Dépendance will undoubtedly continue to inspire both artists and gallerists alike, serving as a testament to the profound impact a dedicated, artist-focused approach can have.