Sculpture Publique d'Aide Culturelle
SPAC: public art and contemporary art collection
SPAC(Sculpture Publiqued′Aide Culturelle) is a sculpture made up of two parts: a bent iron tube and a white parking meter given a makeover by various artists. The use of this device is hijacked since it is no longer a question of paying for car parking, but rather of collecting funds to aid culture. The principle, which has been inactive since August 2021 due to the streetcar works, is as follows: when a spectator-actor inserts change into the parking meter, not only does he light and can contemplate a flame at the top of the metal arch, but he also participates in the constitution of a fund destined to acquire the works that make up the SPACE Collection. Works from the collection are currently on display and/or on loan in Liège (at BAL, Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Liège, and in the offices of SPACE and SMartBe asbl) and Maastricht (Provinciehuis).
Since its installation in 2002 in Féronstrée, the SPAC flame has symbolized and recalled the citizens′ attachment to culture. The collection it is gradually building up is enriched annually by new acquisitions and now numbers 140 pieces. Blending genres, media, working techniques and artists of varying renown guarantees the SPACE Collection a growing aura and influence.
