The Lanesborough at Knokke-Le Zoute
Axel Pairon Gallery, Belgium
July 21–August 29 2021
The “Lanesborough” (once a hospital closed in the 1990’s) is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, where the wealthy 1% strive to live the celebrity lifestyle. Rooms come with butlers and the hotel is a themed fantasy palace where the special few can find happiness and fulfil all their desires of a perfect weekend in London (or in a very luxurious seaside resort in Knokke-Le Zoute, Belguim).The animals here are undressed to kill and are all very willing subjects for Knorr’s camera. They pose, fly, flaunt their jewellery and royal connections who live down Buckingham Palace Road. This work could also be a playful satire on how to aspire to be rich and happy in a very exclusive part of Belgium: Knokke-Le Zoute. The works of Karen Knorr with the rich interiors of the Lanesborough will form a contrast with the smooth and natural beach outside the gallery.
From 1900 till 1930 Knokke-Le Zoute was very much in vogue by the English upper class. That is why the Royal Zoute Golf Club is one of the oldest and most beautiful golf clubs of Continental Europe. There is also a small Anglican Church where once every month an Anglican Mass is still celebrated in English.
The solo exhibition will take place at Axel Pairon Gallery and on Saturday the 7th of August will be part of the art event Trottoir #7 organised by several neighbouring galleries in Knokke-Le Zoute.