The Matonge neighborhood is a cosmopolitan enclave. It pulsates with colors, smells of cuisine and the wide diversity of people’s faces. Hair salons are next to grocery stores filled with fruits and vegetables. People grab Bissap on terraces and on sunny days, it’s not uncommon to hear the hits that have taken the African continent by storm pour out of a brand new sound system.

Look@Matonge showcases the musical diversity and richness of this Brussels neighborhood between Porte de Namur and Saint-Boniface. Photographer Marie Lhoir has been documenting life in Matonge for many years with portraits that emphasize interculturality and human connections.

For Look@Matonge, 20 artists from different generations, all with more or less close ties to Matonge, along with a selection of iconic neighborhood merchants, will pose in pairs. The photographs will  then be displayed in large format in store windows. On June 29th, you can also enjoy acoustic concerts in front of some of the neighborhood’s shops. The photo exhibition and music will combine to give a fresh look on this African gem in the heart of Brussels. Whether you’re a regular visitor to Matonge, just passing by, or a fervent admirer of the musicians from Muziekpublique, come delight your eyes and ears.

With the support of the Mayor, the Alderwoman for Commerce, the Alderman for French-speaking Culture, the Alderman for Youth, the Alderwoman for Dutch-speaking Culture, the Alderwoman for Prevention, and the members of the Municipal Council of the Municipality of Ixelles.