Documentary ‘To Create Closeness’

The documentary 'To Create Closeness', produced by Salto Productions, follows artist Grace Schwindt during her 2023 residency at the M Leuven museum depot. From initial explorations of the collection to in-depth discussions with conservators, the film captures the creative journey leading to her solo exhibition 'A History of Touch'.

Schwindt (b. 1979, Germany) explores how ideologies shape our bodies and relationships. At M, she was particularly drawn to damaged religious sculptures and the care they receive. This inspired new works - paintings, and sculptures - reflecting themes of care and repair.

At the heart of the exhibition, running until 16 November 2025, is a ceramic piece made as a base for a 16th-century Christ sculpture. The show addresses fragility, physicality, and restoration, inviting reflection on how damage affects our perception of art and the human body.

The film highlights both Schwindt’s process and M’s role in fostering artistic dialogue with heritage.

Watch the ​ full documentary To Create Closeness' here.

Documentary ‘To Create Closeness’ | M Leuven

In 2023, Grace Schwindt was a resident in the depot of M. 'To Create Closeness' follows Schwindt on this journey: from her first observations in the depot and her conversations with experts to the creation of her artworks and the final exhibition.

M Leuven

‘A History of Touch’: Grace Schwindt and M’s Statues of Christ | M Leuven

In 2023, at the invitation of M, Grace Schwindt undertook a residency in the museum depot. The German-British artist researched, among other things, medieval sculptures of 'Christ on the Cold Stone', drawing inspiration from them for new work. The resulting pieces are now on display in the exhibition 'A History of Touch'.

M Leuven

PRESS CONTACT:
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​Nica Broucke, nica.broucke@mleuven.be
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​Ellen Verhelle, ellen.verhelle@mleuven.be
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A History of Touch runs concurrently with Sigefride Bruna Hautman’s solo exhibition and Art That Moves.
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION
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​EXPO: A HISTORY OF TOUCH
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​14.02 – 16.11.25
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​Opening 13.02 at 20:00
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Open every day except Wednesday: 11:00 - 18:00. Thursday 11:00 - 22:00.
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​M LEUVEN
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​Leopold Vanderkelenstraat 28
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​3000 Leuven

Grace Schwindt, 2023 © Grace SchwindtChrist sculpture at M depot, 2023, photo Grace Schwindt © de kunstenaar

Grace Schwindt at work in depot M © Salto Productions

Grace Schwindt, 'A History of Touch' at M Leuven

14.02 - 16.11.25

mleuven.prezly.com