Smashing Dialogues 
Gormley & Christov-Bakargiev

Smashing Dialogues is an international talk series by KMSKA that places conversation itself at the centre. In live talks, we bring leading voices from art, culture, science and entrepreneurship together around ideas that shape how we see the world today. Not classic lectures, but open dialogues where perspectives collide, nuance emerges and new insights are unlocked. In the unique context of the museum, conversation becomes an experience: intense, layered and enduringly relevant.

For this inaugural edition, Smashing Dialogues brings together two exceptional voices. Artist Antony Gormley enters into conversation with Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev, curator of the exhibition Antony Gormley. Geestgrond. Starting from Gormley’s artistic practice and the exhibition at KMSKA, the live conversation unfolds around body and space, art and our image of humanity, and how art today can slow down our thinking, deepen it and offer direction.

About the speakers
Antony Gormley is one of the most influential artists of his generation. His sculptures and installations explore the relationship between the human body, space and collectivity. With iconic works around the world, he invites us to look differently at ourselves, our surroundings and our place within them.

Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev is an internationally renowned curator and intellectual. She is known for her in-depth exhibitions and conversations that connect art with philosophy, politics, ecology and science. Her dialogue with Gormley promises a conversation that is both incisive and open, personal and universal.

In conversation with Ella Leyers
The conversation will be moderated by Ella Leyers. With her sharp eye, curiosity and natural ability to connect, she makes complex ideas accessible without sacrificing depth. As an interviewer, she creates space for nuance, friction and unexpected insights—exactly what Smashing Dialogues stands for.

• 17:30: Doors open & possibility to visit the exhibition Antony Gormley. Geestgrond
• 18:30 – 19:30 (sharp): Conversation in the Rubens Room
• 19:30: Exhibition visit Antony Gormley. Geestgrond and Reception

• The talks in Smashing Dialogues are held in English.
• Ticket price: €225. The usual discount formulas do not apply to this event. All ticket revenue will go to the children’s and youth project Art on the Lawn.
• Can't make it? We'll be streaming this discussion live, so you can watch from anywhere.