Gas shortages, high bills, material scarcity... The winter of 2022-2023 was filled with energy uncertainties that didn't favor Belgian associations during the harsh months. In response to the risk faced by these associations of being without heating, the NOIR Artist team teamed up with Freedam, a specialist in infrared heaters, to support a non-profit organization in Liège, “Les Solidaires de Barchon”.  

The Project Collaborators

Whenever the opportunity arises, NOIR enjoys collaborating with other local businesses to create more synergy within the Province of Liège. That's why during the winter of 2022-2023, the artist embarked on a project of empathy and solidarity in partnership with the Freedam team. But who are they?

Freedam is a manufacturer of infrared heaters that utilize radiant elements made from a high-temperature and corrosion-resistant alloy of titanium, chrome, and aluminum. These panels can be mounted directly on walls, visually resembling artists' white canvases. Besides providing unique and practical wall decor, Freedam panels reduce energy consumption bills through the "slow heat" principle, which heats the individual rather than the entire space.

Both driven by the desire to assist those in need, NOIR Artist and Freedam combined their expertise to create heating panels adorned with NOIR's artwork. These panels were then placed within the former Barchon presbytery, now the headquarters of the Solidaires de Barchon non-profit organization.

This non-profit supports young migrants in transit in Barchon, in the municipality of Blégny.

"Our emergency humanitarian assistance involves welcoming young people who sleep under bridges to the Barchon presbytery, so they can warm up, eat, wash, and find some comfort. Medical assistance and support with administrative procedures (asylum requests, etc.) are also part of our mission."

“Global Resilience” : The Return of a Meaningful Artwork

You may remember the special edition "Global Resilience" created in April 2020 to support Médecins Sans Frontières in their fight against Covid. Well, this meaningful artwork is back in NOIR Artist's endeavor to aid those in need!

It conveys the message that the world is fractured and facing numerous challenges, similar to the association's struggle with 25 migrants. However, together, we can find solutions to address them.

"Empathy is the ability we possess to identify with another person's feelings. It's about understanding and helping them to take action."

A few weeks before the project's launch in November, NOIR Artist unveiled his new drawing "Empathy is Strength," subsequently reproduced in a limited edition of 100 copies. This artwork aimed to demonstrate that having empathy towards those around us is a strength, generating a form of empowerment.

The collaboration between NOIR and Freedam to assist a Liège-based association was made possible by those who ordered the "Empathy is Strength" edition. Part of the proceeds from its sales was redirected towards realizing this project. So, thank you to all of you!