Cores Development wants to continue investing in safeguarding the art of living for the future and encouraging the public to engage in critical thinking

The property developer Cores Development was founded 17 years ago with the goal of creating urban real estate concepts that offer social value. A value that CCO Sophie Deprez also recognizes in KMSKA, she says.

Why do you consider it important to engage in this kind of partnership?

Sophie Deprez: “Our activities have an impact on the surrounding community, and change is always challenging. That’s why, when it comes to the future development of neighborhoods, we are happy to support local projects. This can range from helping build a new local center for a youth movement, sponsoring recreational initiatives for children in underprivileged areas, or opening our buildings to house Ukrainian families. Very different initiatives, yet all share the same foundation: social engagement.

We prefer to be known at the micro-level of a neighborhood, where we can truly make a difference, rather than seeking media attention. It is important to us to integrate into the fabric of the community by listening and responding to its needs. Residents don’t like to feel that decisions are made above their heads and imposed on them. And we want those people to be happy. We even have an ombudswoman on staff who ensures this is respected.”

Why did you choose KMSKA?

“We are happy to contribute to the success of a place that brings together and preserves an art collection in a truly special way for future generations. The building has also been renovated in a clever and beautiful manner. We recognize that passion, and it is also part of Cores’ DNA. We want to continue investing in safeguarding the art of living for the future. And that can be achieved by encouraging the public, especially young people, to engage with art, to experience wonder, and to think critically.

In the new KMSKA, visitors are cocooned away from everyday reality and confronted with universal themes explored by both old and modern masters. The almost homely intimacy allows you to relax while also stimulating you to think more deeply about less obvious subjects. This creates an all-encompassing experience. Truly unique.”

What is your favourite work?

“Jean Fouquet’s 'Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim' remains a challenging work. The boldness with which he undertook this in the mid-15th century is phenomenal. Today, we are confronted with certain movements, visions, and fake news, but this reminds us to stay alert and think critically.

Another favorite is James Ensor’s 'The Intrigue'. It aligns well with the efforts we make every day to understand what truly matters to people. Ensor depicted this in a masterful way. You see something at first glance, but you are urged to look beyond the masks and avoid drawing superficial conclusions.”

What is your company most looking forward to during this partnership?

“To fully be part of the beautiful KMSKA community. We want to immerse our partners and employees in the bath of beauty, authenticity, and wonder that the museum presents.

We will also gratefully take advantage of the opportunity to organize receptions, dinners, or engaging evenings with speakers or cultural programs.

We encourage colleagues to visit the museum with their families, as well as with our clients, partners, and business relations. In this way, we transcend the daily routine and discuss topics that would not normally come up in casual conversations, at a restaurant, or at a typical networking event. KMSKA gives us the opportunity to connect with people more quickly and in a different way. This creates added value and an extra dimension that should not be underestimated.”