Different Class and S.M.A.K. reunite for a special Late Thursday, blending contemporary art and music in an intimate setting. Painter Shirley Villavicencio Pizango offers two guided tours through Painting After Painting, sharing her insights on the exhibition and her perspective on contemporary painting. Afterwards, rising talent Birame brings a unique mix of experimental soul and pop to S.M.A.K. in an exclusive live concert.
For Birame, music is a way to explore the tensions between his queer identity and multicultural background. His signature crucifix logo symbolises the connection between Belgium and Senegal. His sound blends the avant-garde tones of semi-niche R&B with influences from artists like Solange, Sampha, FKA Twigs and Björk.
Birame’s musical journey began with jazz piano lessons as a child. After performing solo with electronic beats, he craved the energy of a live band. At KASK & Conservatorium in Ghent, where he studies music production, he found musicians who complement his vision. His debut at Zebrastraat Showcase#Music (Ghent) was rewarded with a Zebrawoods 2024-2025 spot. Soon after, Birame was named a finalist in De Nieuwe Lichting 2025. Currently, he performs as a singer and actor in PEEKABOO, a theatre production by Maxime Dreesen, touring Belgium and the Netherlands in 2025.
A S.M.A.K. guide will take you through the exhibition Painting After Painting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Shirley Villavicencio Pizango is a Ghent-based artist represented by Gallery Sofie Van de Velde. Known for her expressive, figurative paintings, she explores identity, heritage, and representation. Drawing from her Peruvian roots and personal experiences, she challenges Western artistic traditions by reimagining portraiture with bold colours, layered textures, and a unique perspective on diversity. Her work has been exhibited internationally, earning recognition for its vibrant storytelling and nuanced cultural narratives.
