Claïs Lemmens has been appointed general director

It is with great pleasure that MORPHO introduces its new general director, Claïs Lemmens!

Claïs started her work at MORPHO on January 2, 2024. Working closely with artistic director Caroline Dumalin, she will lead a team of five, coordinate day-to-day operations, further develop a sustainable financing mix, and determine new directions in order to hold space for artists in the city and support their development, both locally and internationally.

Claïs Lemmens was trained as a musicologist at KU Leuven and cultural manager at Berklee College of Music. She previously held the role of Managing Director at music magazine Gonzo (circus) and Manager at B.O.X ensemble. She sits on the subsidy committee of the Flemish Government and wrote her dissertation on the impact of government subsidies for culture and the arts on the identity of professional ensembles and orchestras in Flanders. Claïs is also the founder of VILT Management, a talent agency that guides young artists into a sustainable career – which fundamentally aligns with the mission of MORPHO.

Statement from Claïs: ‘I am thrilled to start a new adventure with MORPHO and its amazing team. Working in the development of artists, with a main focus on visual arts, is a new challenge which came my way at the exact right time. I’m hoping to learn the ins and outs from my colleagues and, in turn, bring my own network and expertise. I can’t wait to collaborate with my co-director Caroline Dumalin on the many opportunities coming our way! Finally, I would like to extend my gratitude to my predecessor and MORPHO’s founder Greet Vlegels for building out the organisation so carefully and to the board of directors for their trust.’

Petra Van Brabandt, president of MORPHO’s board of directors, adds: ‘We are very pleased that Claïs Lemmens wants to take over the torch from Greet Vlegels. As a board we were impressed by her approach, vision and enthusiasm and are confident that together with Caroline Dumalin she will lead MORPHO and the team with care and knowledge. We look forward to this new MORPHO chapter and as a board will support Claïs and Caroline and the team as best we can in the challenges ahead! Welcome, Claïs!’