Van Avermaet is most well-known for his Academy Award nominated short DEATH OF A SHADOW starring Matthias Schoenaerts. He graduated from the film school RITS. During his final year of study in 2006, which he graduated with honors, he produced his first short film, DREAMTIME - DROOMTIJD , where he directed, scripted , designed the set, and took on the role of producer. The film ran at national and international festivals and won numerous awards. He most recently directed the short HEARTS OF STONE starring Noomie Rapace.