Children often perceive the world differently from adults, posing questions about wasted food, fighting, and the meaning of 'later'. This sense of wonder is central to 'Kinderspel?!', the main exhibition of the 66th Cartoon Festival Knokke-Heist. Cartoonists such as Lectrr, Pieter De Poortere, and Niet Nu Laura are creating new works inspired by their childhoods.
The exhibition runs from Saturday, March 20th to Sunday, May 9th, 2027, at Cultuurcentrum Scharpoord and is free for the entire family. Curator Karakters has asked artists to use their childlike gaze to explore contemporary observations, surprises, and concerns.
Children aged 8 to 12 also have a platform. A group of children will engage in conversation with moderator Piv Huvluv about the exhibited cartoons. Their reactions will be filmed and become part of the exhibition, fostering a dialogue between the cartoonist's childhood perspective, the resulting artwork, and the views of today's children. Bram Vandekerckhove, CEO of Karakters, highlights that children dare to ask questions adults often forget.
In addition to the main exhibition, there are three other collections: the international cartoon competition 'Gouden Hoed', 'Press Cartoon Belgium' showcasing the best Belgian cartoons of the past year, and a competition for illustration students from art schools like LUCA School of Arts and KASK.
The festival also features live drawing sessions, workshops, and other public activities. More details on the full program will be announced later. Participation in the 'Gouden Hoed' competition is open until November 30th, 2026, via www.cartoonfestival.be.
Practical information: The exhibition is held at Cultuurcentrum Scharpoord, Maxim Willemspad 1, 8300 Knokke-Heist, from March 20th to May 9th, 2027, open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (closed on Mondays). Admission is free.
