A life shaped by lines and light Alfred Verhaeren began his days in Brussels, born to Louis Eugène Henri Gérard Verhaeren and Marie Nathalie Crabbe. Before he ever held a brush with the intent of a painter, he spent time in an architect's office, learning how to draw up plans and designs. This early training left its mark on his later work, particularly in his architectural paintings. He eventually moved away from the drafting table to…