S.M.A.K. is open from Tuesday to Sunday
Weekdays (outside school holidays): 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Weekends, public holidays and school holidays: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Open until 10:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month (except in July, August and September)
On 24 and 31 December: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Closed on Mondays
Closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January
S.M.A.K. exhibits artworks from its own collection in dialogue with works by contemporary artists from all corners of the world. Through contemporary art, we seek and provide meaning to this complex and fragmented world. In doing so, we focus maximally on accessibility and inclusivity, because art is for everyone. Meet artists with a surprising and visionary view of the world and sharpen your perspective. You can slowly unwind from the many impressions in museum café Wilde Weide or by taking a walk in the park.
Under the inspiring leadership of curator and 'art pope' Jan Hoet, a high-profile figure, the former 'Contemporary Art Department' of the MSK received its own museum: S.M.A.K. In 2005, Philippe Van Cauteren took the helm. With a great heart for art in relation to a changing society, he looks at the art world with a broad perspective.
Under his leadership, the exhibition program was mainly focused on major monographic exhibitions of leading artists. His special interest in art in the public space manifested itself in the international exhibition TRACK (2012) which he organized in Ghent.
S.M.A.K. Moves is the participatory platform of S.M.A.K. It provides space for collaboration and innovation. Visitors, artists, partners, and the S.M.A.K. team meet here, creating new perspectives and creative exchanges.
Art has a connecting power that brings people into conversation. Art and culture are not self-evident for everyone, yet art can be meaningful to everyone. Through this platform, we bring people, ideas, and experiments together to shape the museum of tomorrow.
We want to make contemporary art accessible to everyone, because art is a powerful tool for connection and dialogue. It is a universal language that breaks down barriers.
S.M.A.K. Moves does not do this alone; we do it together with various partner organizations. Each project arises from the wishes and needs of the people.
© Jan Opdekamp
© Titus Simoens
© Eva Vlonk