WielerToerist Modernist presented at the Clarissen Convent

On Sunday, June 7, the former Clarissen Convent in Turnhout served as the backdrop for the presentation of WielerToerist Modernist, a new publication by Toerist Modernist by Gerlin Heestermans in collaboration with Chiara Kuijpers (VUB) and Femke Van der Meulen (KU Leuven).

The choice of this exceptional location was no coincidence. The convent, designed by Carli Vanhout and Paul Schellekens and completed in 1967, is among the most remarkable examples of religious modernism in Flanders and provides a unique setting to bring the story of post-war modernism in the Kempen to life.

WielerToerist Modernist is much more than a traditional cycling guide. The book takes the reader past a series of remarkable buildings and landscapes, telling the story of a region where modernist architecture has an exceptionally strong presence. Through historical images, background stories, and carefully selected routes, it becomes clear how architecture, faith, housing, and life in the Kempen have influenced one another. The publication is the result of a collaboration between Toerist Modernist, Erfgoed Noorderkempen, and various researchers, and is based, in part, on archival research at KADOC.

Of particular interest are the accompanying audio clips, which add an extra dimension to the publication. Various witnesses and stakeholders share their stories, including architect Paul Schellekens. By preserving these voices and making them accessible, the project brings not only the buildings but also the stories and memories associated with them back to life.

During the presentation, visitors also had the opportunity to discover the convent through guided tours led by Xavier Eelen, where the architecture of Atelier Vanhout – Schellekens & Ass. once again proved its strength. The event further highlighted the richness and versatility of the modernist heritage in the Kempen and the ongoing importance of documenting, preserving, and making these stories accessible to a wide audience.

We congratulate Toerist Modernist on this exceptionally successful publication and are delighted that the Clarissen Convent is part of this story.

With WielerToerist Modernist, the modernist heritage of the Kempen gains not only a book but also a new way to experience it: by cycling, listening, and discovering.