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Centre for Engraving and Printed Image, a unique place where printmaking is discovered, understood and practiced

Stepping through the doors of the Centre for Engraving and Printed Image means entering a world that is at once calm, inspiring and surprisingly vibrant. This singular museum, entirely dedicated to printmaking, houses a remarkable collection of nearly 16,000 works, while remaining deeply accessible. Here, printed art reveals itself without intimidation, in a spirit of discovery, learning and creative growth, in the heart of Wallonia.

An exceptional collection highlighted with subtlety

The museum unfolds its riches across several levels, with a floor dedicated to the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions that constantly renew the visitor’s perspective. The rooms, most often white and minimalist, are entirely redesigned for each exhibition in order to showcase the artworks without overwhelming them.
The soft, carefully controlled lighting, fluid visitor paths and spaces for contemplation invite visitors to slow down, observe and explore the technical details of printmaking and artistic gesture.

The scientific content, made accessible in three languages, naturally accompanies the visit. Visitors understand what they are looking at while never losing the pleasure of discovery. The exhibition design plays with surprise and wonder, creating a strong coherence between the works on display.

A human-scale museum designed for everyone

What immediately stands out is the sense of comfort and welcoming atmosphere. The circulation through the museum is designed for all ages, with or without mobility aids, allowing for a smooth visit with family, friends or alone. The space is calm and cool, ideal both for contemplation and for preserving the artworks.

Visitor feedback reflects this unique atmosphere:
What a magnificent place that showcases so many printmaking techniques and the talents of Belgian and international artists!
A wonderful discovery with our little Lily, aged 4.
Beautiful exhibition and a lovely place — we will come back.
Simple, often enthusiastic words that say much about the welcoming spirit and generosity of the venue.

The engraving workshop, where art truly comes alive

In contrast with the sobriety of the exhibition rooms, the engraving workshop, fully equipped, bursts with colours, presses, materials and experimentation. This is where observation turns into action. Visitors can practice, understand the techniques and experience the magic of an image appearing on paper.

School groups discover a wide range of playful and creative techniques that leave a lasting impression. Some adults even recall with emotion their childhood memories of discovering engraving with classmates. A sensitive transmission that crosses generations.

The workshops often inspire new passions or simply the desire to return:
I will come back to take part in a workshop — I loved the exhibition.
I learned so much, thank you.
Even the youngest visitors leave smiling, proud to have touched art with their own hands.

A committed, inspiring and generous place

The Centre for Engraving and Printed Image highlights the diversity of artists, techniques and perspectives, including a particular attention to women artists, often praised by loyal visitors. There is a sincere commitment to keeping printed art alive, sharing it and passing it on.

A museum on a human scale, yet exceptionally rich, offering a gentle and stimulating experience where visitors feel welcome, curious and free to learn and feel.

Opening times

Tuesday to Sunday: 10.00 to 18.00. Closed: Mondays - on 15, 16 and 17/03 (Laetare), on 24, 25, 31/12 and 1/01.

Price

adults €8 • 60+: €6 • students, disabled: €3 • children (<12) free of charge • Free entry on the 1st Sunday of the month.

Guided tour

Free guided tour on the first Sunday of the month at 11.00. and 14.30 (in FR only)

Tour length

1 to 2 hrs

Group

Price (min. 10 people) adults €5 • students €2

Guided tour Guided tour in FR: €80 (max. 25 people per guide) • Package tour + workshop (2 hrs) for children and/or adults

More information • Engraving or typography workshops, combined tours • Room hire for team-building events, seminars, conferences • Bus parking at "La Louvière Centre" station.

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