The Saint-Martin Festival: A unique artistic event in Belgium
The Saint-Martin Festival is a highlight of the year. Since 1965, this event has brought together hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors to celebrate art in all its forms. What makes this art trail so special is the involvement of the residents of Tourinnes-la-Grosse and the surrounding villages. Each year they open their homes, barns and studios to welcome the artists and their works. This warm, authentic setting fosters a genuine sense of closeness between artists and visitors.
This year, I shall have the pleasure of exhibiting at number 94 on the route, at the home of Philippe and Diane de Behault, situated at 21 Rue de Valduc, 1320 Hamme-Mille. I shall be joined by six other artists, each bringing their own unique creative vision. Together, we offer a rich and diverse artistic experience in a warm and welcoming setting.
Paul Marnef: Photographer and Creator of the Imaginary Planets at the Fêtes de la Saint-Martin
This archive looks back at the presentation of my Imaginary Planets at the 2024 Fêtes de la Saint-Martin in Hamme-Mille. There, I shared my attachment to this journey and my desire to help people discover real places in a different light. This edition holds its own place in my career, distinct from the selection prepared for 2025.
Imaginary Planets: My Creative Universe
My photographic work centres on my series entitled ‘Imaginary Planets’. These creations are suspended worlds, where the natural elements I photograph are transformed into dreamlike landscapes. I enjoy exploring the boundary between the real and the imaginary, where each planet seems to float in an infinite universe.
Each photograph is meticulously crafted to create a unique atmosphere. My works are available as ChromaLuxe prints or in other fine art finishes, formats which offer exceptional print quality, allowing the colours and details of my images to be fully realised. Each work is offered as a limited edition, which is my way of making every piece unique and precious to those who acquire it.
My attachment to the Saint Martin’s Day celebrations
Taking part in this artists’ trail is both a pleasure and an honour for me. The atmosphere at the Fêtes de la Saint-Martin is unrivalled. It is an event where interaction is at the heart of the experience, where I can chat with visitors, explain my creative process, and share the stories behind my Imaginary Planets.
This event also gives me the opportunity to meet other talented artists, discuss our practices and discover new sources of inspiration. Since the Fêtes were founded in 1965 by Max van der Linden, known as Miqui, this event has become a symbol of sharing, curiosity and creativity. I am proud to be able to carry on this tradition and to make my own contribution to it.
Why come to the Fêtes de la Saint-Martin?
The Fêtes de la Saint-Martin are more than a simple art trail. They are a genuinely immersive experience, where art takes over every street corner, every house and every studio. With over 220 artists exhibiting across 99 venues, this event offers a rich artistic diversity. Whether you are an art lover or simply curious, there is always a work, a meeting or an exchange that leaves a lasting impression.
I invite you to discover my work and immerse yourself in the poetic universe of my Imaginary Planets. It would be my pleasure to welcome you at 21 Rue de Valduc and to discuss my artistic approach, my inspirations and the creative process behind each piece.
My creative
process
Each of my Imaginary Planets is the result of meticulous composition and retouching. I am fascinated by the way nature can be transformed through the lens of my camera. I enjoy capturing landscapes and everyday details, and transforming them into imaginary worlds that seem to float through time and space.
The use of media such as ChromaLuxe and Alu Dibond mounting allows me to enhance my photographs. These materials guarantee unrivalled print quality, with vibrant colours and exceptional durability. I particularly like the metallic finish of ChromaLuxe, which adds an almost futuristic dimension to my creations.
A moment of sharing
For me, the Fêtes de la Saint-Martin are much more than just an exhibition. It is a time when I can truly share my passion for photography and art with the public. It is also an opportunity to discover what my works mean to others. Everyone is free to interpret my Imaginary Planets in their own way, to let themselves be carried away by the atmosphere they evoke.
It is this interaction with visitors that makes this event so special. I enjoy hearing their impressions and ideas, and seeing how my creations resonate with them. For me, this dialogue about art is a source of inspiration and motivation.
Meet in Hamme-Mille
I look forward to meeting you at the Fêtes de la Saint-Martin for a moment of discovery and sharing. Come and stroll through the streets of Tourinnes-la-Grosse, Beauvechain, Hamme-Mille, La Bruyère, Nodebais and Nethen; explore the various exhibition venues; and let yourself be swept away by the artistic diversity that characterises this event. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, you’re bound to find something that will spark your imagination.
I look forward to welcoming you at number 21 Rue de Valduc in Hamme-Mille, where you can discover my Imaginary Planets and discuss my work with me. Please do come and meet me; I’d be delighted to share with you this world that is so dear to my heart.
The Saint-Martin Festival is a unique opportunity to discover art in all its forms, in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss this year’s event, which once again promises to be rich in discoveries and artistic inspiration.
I look forward to seeing you very soon during the festive season.
Discover the works available in fine art finish
The Imaginary Planets are offered in several professional finishes: Fine Art prints, ChromaLuxe, Diachrome or other media depending on the artwork. Each print is produced as a limited edition, signed, numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
To continue your exploration
Would you like to find out more about a piece of work or how it is presented? Please write to me to discuss it. You can also explore other topics on the fine art photography blog.
See also: Saint Martin’s Day celebrations 2025: my new works in Nethen; Artists’ trail in Walloon Brabant: encounters and tips for visitors.