In ENSEMBLEMATIC, S.M.A.K. presents several of its most notable ensembles.
The artist is at the heart of all S.M.A.K.’s activities. Consequently, an important part of the collection policy focuses on putting together ensembles. Rather than representing an artist by just one work, S.M.A.K. aims to collect an oeuvre in-depth and so understand it in all its complexity. In ENSEMBLEMATIC, S.M.A.K. presents several of its most notable ensembles. In ENSEMBLEMATIC it is not only the history and vision of the museum that resonates, but also and especially unique relationships with individual artists. Each room provides space for one ensemble. Apart from representative works, the selection also focuses on surprising and atypical works in an artist’s oeuvre. Consequently, for Panamarenko it displays mainly small objects rather than his flying machines, and Luc Tuymans’ work also includes drawings and stamps. Various artists, including Leo Copers, Mark Manders and Thierry De Cordier were consulted on the display of their work.
‘A collection is more permanent and slow-moving, while the ‘exhibition spirit’ with its high-profile shows puts the museum into a higher gear. Exhibitions capture the spirit of the times and are a part of it. At S.M.A.K., collecting and exhibiting go hand in hand and this makes us unique.’ Philippe Van Cauteren, artistic director of S.M.A.K.
