LA SOLFATARA houses the archives of Jean-Michel Othoniel and Johan Creten, assembled throughout their artistic careers since the 1980s.

During their first visits to the United States in the 1990s, the two artists discovered an approach to archiving and documenting artistic practices that was, at the time, more developed than in France or Belgium. They became aware of the importance placed on preserving records of artists' work, not only to support their careers but also to safeguard the history of their works and make them accessible for future study. This experience encouraged Jean-Michel Othoniel and Johan Creten to systematically document their own artistic journeys from an early stage. They began collecting and preserving photographs, correspondence, writings, films, preparatory drawings, plans, exhibition documentation and objects related to the conception and production of their works.

Now brought together at LA SOLFATARA, these archives form a continuously evolving collection, regularly enriched by the artists' new projects. Their organisation, preservation and digitisation make it possible to trace the history of individual works, document exhibitions and collaborations, and respond to requests relating to academic research, publications, catalogues raisonnés and artwork authentication.

Beyond their documentary purpose, these archives provide insight into the development of two artistic practices and their place within the history of contemporary art over more than three decades. They also preserve the memory of the encounters, exchanges and contexts that have shaped the creation of their works.

A living documentation centre and the foundation for a future institution, this collection is intended to serve as a resource for research and the sharing of knowledge. By appointment and in connection with specific projects, LA SOLFATARA can welcome researchers, art historians, students and interns, encouraging the study and understanding of the works and artistic careers of both artists.