Wolf Oil wants to help build, together with the KMSKA, what makes Antwerp so unique

Lubricants giant Wolf Oil sees many of its core values reflected in the KMSKA and its ambitions. For CEO Philippe Verellen, this is an excellent reason for a long-term commitment.

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

Philippe Verrellen: “We are one of the largest independent European lubricants producers, and with our products we keep cars, trucks, and machinery, and therefore the economy, running every day. We have been doing this since 1955, with a strong focus on related services, and we aim to support our partners in their development. In doing so, we look for collaborations that create added value for both parties.

Three core values are sacred to us. ‘We are Connected’. As a team we are stronger, internally but also through our relationships with suppliers, customers, partners, and the local community. Our origins and growth in Hemiksem and Antwerp are essential to our international success story. Second, ‘We are Adventurous’. We are pioneers, driven to take on new challenges, find creative solutions, and improve continuously. The KMSKA does this too, with a collection that thinks outside the box. Third, ‘We are Demanding’. We do not accept mediocrity and always aim to move forward. We see the same drive reflected in the KMSKA.” 

Why did you choose KMSKA?

 “For us, the museum is one of the key showcases that make Antwerp so captivating. Its ambition to pursue innovation within tradition aligns perfectly with our corporate vision of continuous renewal. This mindset, combined with keeping our Belgian, Flemish, and Antwerp cultural heritage relevant and visible on an international level, makes the KMSKA unique. We support this with great enthusiasm and are proud to elevate it further through our engagement.”

What is your favourite work from the collection?

“'Composition' by Jozef Peeters from 1921, an abstract work featuring circles and lines with a striking color palette. Peeters was the embodiment of the Antwerp avant-garde and believed that artists express the modern outlook on life. He was also friends with Paul van Ostaijen and Michel Seuphor and corresponded with the pioneers of international art movements. We see this partnership as a way to grow and be pushed out of our comfort zone. And that is exactly what Peeters does to you. A true trailblazer and an Antwerp giant.”

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

“We produce a product that few people in Belgium come into direct contact with. That means we are not widely known yet. Through this partnership, we can show what we stand for and contribute to what makes Antwerp so unique. We are also considering a major event for all our employees, from laborers to office staff, and their families. It would be fantastic to let them experience everything the museum has to offer and completely blow them away. We also have a growing team of international specialists working with us. Opening up the treasures of the KMSKA for them is an additional motivation. Finally, through this partnership, we become part of the KMSKA network of companies with Antwerp roots. That is both interesting and educational. In a world that is changing rapidly, it is crucial that we meet, inspire one another, and continue to challenge and reinvent ourselves.”