
Galerie Greta Meert is pleased to present HOTELS, Magali Reus’s first solo exhibition with the gallery.
Rooted in seemingly everyday objects and images, Reus’ work initially evokes a sense of familiarity. What begins as a recognisable reference—a chair, a street curb, a fridge, a padlock, a saddle, a fire-hose, an alarm clock, a cooking pot—is gradually transformed by cross-fertilised textures, deliberately mismatched techniques, maximised anomalies, and misapplied engineering, until it migrates away from recognition and towards abstraction. Visual elements are reproduced, layered and repeated in works that are individually crafted using complex casting, moulding and CNC milling and metalwork techniques, pitting the aggressive emptiness of manufacture against the slow diligence of handiwork.
Oscillating between craft-based and technological production, Reus borrows existing objects and places them within, under, next to, and inside each other in ways that are compatible with their material demands even if they are incompatible to human ones. This process of juxtaposition unfolds the hidden complexity of her works as the familiar is made strange and the disruption of ordinary settings and associations gives way to brand new, ambiguous forms.
Over the past 30 years, Galerie Greta Meert established itself as one of Brussels’ leading contemporary art galleries. Founded in 1988 as Galerie Meert Rihoux, it was subsequently renamed after its founding director Greta Meert in 2006. Located in the center of Brussels, the gallery occupies a five-story Art Nouveau building designed by Louis Bral and renovated for the gallery by renowned Belgian architects Hilde Daem and Paul Robbrecht. Since 2012 three floors of the building are dedicated to exhibitions, making it possible to maintain an expanded exhibition schedule.

A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services