Changes

Frans Van Haelen was well known as a cultural figure in his time, a patron of the arts and benefactor to the pre-war artist group later known as the ''Brabant Fauves.'' This group included the artists Rik Wouters (1882-1916), Louis Thevenet (1874-1930), and Felix De Boeck (1898-1995). Flemish author Herman Teirlinck (1879-1967) was also associated with the group, also known as the "Calevoeters". He also co-chaired a local theater group in Linkebeek with Teirlinck, ''De Eendracht''. The artists often assembled at the brewer's home, and worked in a loft above the Cafe Les 3 Pigeons across the street from the brewery. This space was provided by Van Haelen, along with ample food and libations. Crates of gueuze were sometimes exchanged for artworks. A private gallery was constructed inside the brewery, and Van Haelen's home was full of fine art and antiquities. Van Haelen was also a friend of famous Belgian artist James Ensor (1860-1949), and several of his Ensor's paintings were even hanging inside the brewery before it was demolished in 1971.