Although visitors will have to wait to view this year’s highly-anticipated Flower Carpet in the Grand Place, they can already admire a miniature version in Mini-Europe. The tourist attraction in Heysel has unveiled the colourful artwork by Japanese artist Hiro Sugiyama and his collective Enlightenment; a contemporary reinterpretation of Katsushika Hokusai’s world-famous print The Great Wave of Kanagawa. Honouring 160 years of diplomatic relations and friendship between Belgium and Japan, it was revealed at a ceremony in the presence of the Japanese ambassador to Belgium,
Takeshi Osuga (pictured, below left). Managing director of Mini-Europe Vinciane Meeùs (pictured, above right) said: “I would like to thank the City of Brussels and the Tapis de Fleurs association for allowing us to reproduce it. This partnership helps boost tourism in Brussels.” Nawal Ben Hamou, alderwoman of the City of Brussels and chairwoman of the non-profit Tapis de Fleurs de Bruxelles added: “The Flower Carpet is one of the must-see events of the Brussels summer.” She said the city had the privilege of welcoming
Japan as guest of honour, 10 years after its participation in the 2016 edition. The full-size version of the floral carpet will be on show in Brussels’ medieval square from 16 to 18 August. Photos: ©Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe, Flower Carpet, Grand Place, Hiro Sugiyama, Enlightenment, The Great Wave of Kanagawa, Takeshi Osuga, Vinciane Meeùs, Nawal Ben Hamou, Tapis de Fleurs, Belgium Japan, Brussels tourism