Date: 11.11.2022 - 25.06.2023
Temporary exhibition
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‘Hidden Gems’ shows the visitor the very best of what Mechelen has produced throughout the centuries, through masterpieces by artists such as Rubens, Jordaens and Faydherbe. Many of these hidden gems come from museum, private and heritage collections and are being exhibited to the public for the first time. There are more than 100 works of art from various periods and disciplines, such as painting, jewellery, sculpture and printmaking. For this exhibition, a timeless city made of steel is constructed, inviting visitors to wander around.
Highlights include four altarpieces painted by Peter Paul Rubens for St John’s Church and the Church of Our Lady across the Dyle in Mechelen. They have returned to Mechelen for the first time since being taken to France by the new revolutionary authorities in 1794.
Programme
City Map
Together with Visit Mechelen, the museum publishes a special city map to guide visitors to key sites around the city. And so visitors get to see the former homes of Mechelen artists, historic churches containing works by Flemish Masters and notable places such as the former home of miniature painter Mayken Verhulst, the Rik Wouters garden and the former hospital.
Study Day
The museum also organises the 'Art in Motion' study day about art during the French period. Looting, restitution, the origins of museums and the turbulent histories of the works themselves are all discussed. Lectures and debates feature Hannah Iterbeke, Tom Verschaffel, Siska Beele, Lizet Klaassen, Brecht Deseure, Beatrijs Wolters van der Wey, Christophe Busch, Nico Van Hout, Bert Demarsin, Vicky Van Bockhaven, Doruntina Islamaj, Annelies Beck and Samuel Mareel.
Dance of the Giants
Mechelen's giants cannot be left out of this collection of hidden gems. Thanks to the teams who carry them, these examples of living heritage not only appear in the exhibition but are also regularly brought to life. Visitors who arrive at the right moment see the giants dancing in the museum hall.
Three Themed Tours
Groups can choose from three different themed tours. The Masterpieces Tour introduces visitors to highlights from the exhibition. Women in Art gives a voice to women who have played a role in Mechelen’s artistic history. Finally, Mechelen Myths and Mascots explores the city's legends and folklore.
Schools: Now Also for the Very Youngest Visitors
This exhibition offers programmes linked to curriculum goals from nursery through primary and secondary education. Parading Through the Museum offers young children a first museum experience filled with wonder. A City Full of Art offers primary school pupils a musical history lesson. Hidden Gems gives secondary school pupils in the 2nd and 3rd grades an interactive introduction to the historical, artistic and heritage stories behind seven centuries of masterpieces in Mechelen.
Family Trail and Workshop
Families discover Hidden Gems as though on a city break in an art- filled location. With a small suitcase and map in hand, they search for seven gems and complete the accompanying family game. Anyone who finds all seven receives a souvenir at reception. During the closing weekend, families can take part in the Festive Musical Notes workshop.
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