At a time of growing polarization, multidisciplinary artist Stef Van Looveren and performer/hypnotherapist Michele Occelli emphasize the urgency of trance and creative practice. By sustaining ambiguity and encouraging non-binary ways of thinking and relating, they suggest alternative ways of inhabiting the body and engaging the world.

The Front Row talk explores in-betweenness as a shared conceptual and embodied framework within contemporary art and hypnosis. They examine how states of suspension—between self and other, inner and outer, form and formlessness—create space for transformation. Key ideas include non-binary embodiment, interconnection, and the symbolic figure of the divine androgyne (Rebis), alongside the alchemical principle of solve et coagula.

Trance is described here as a threshold where fixed identities soften and oppositions dissolve. In this reflective state of melting and re-forming, perception becomes fluid and relational. Artistic practice and hypnosis are presented as parallel embodied methods that cultivate altered attention and somatic awareness, enabling transformation across inner experience and outward form.

Additionally, Michele Occelli will lead a performative session centered on hypnosis and trance. This unique experience takes place on Saturday, March 28th at 15:00, set directly within Stef Van Looveren’s site-specific installation.

Practical information
Front Row Talk
Thursday 26.03, 19:00 – M HKA, 6th floor
Free entrance — reserve your spot here

Cosmic Body: A Live Hypnosis Activation
Saturday 28.03, 15:00 IN SITU (ground floor) In English
Tickets: €6 — reserve your tickets here

Please note: The IN SITU space will be closed to regular visitors during the Hypnosis Activation from 15:00 – 17:00.

Thanks to Vitra Partner store for collaborating on the seating.