City Museum for Contemporary Art
SMAK

Home to one of the biggest collections of contemporary art in Belgium, SMAK is an art museum that you can’t miss in Ghent.

Known for its collection and exhibits of modern art, SMAK is one of the newer museums in Ghent. The museum really got started in 1975, but it’s really kicked it up a notch in the last few years as its collection of contemporary art has grown. Plus, SMAK hosts tons of exhibitions. From big solo exhibits to talks by younger artists, at SMAK you get to see art history happen in real time. While the art museum is best for artists to get inspired, there are options for newbies and families too.

Exhibit Deets

Like all artsy museums, SMAK has a permanent exhibit that you can count on for a creative sight to see. Their permanent exhibit, the Broodthaerskabinet, is totally devoted to Marcel Broodthaers. A 20th century artist, Broodthaers was super influential for his visual artwork. At SMAK, you can see Le Pense-Bête (1964), his impossible to read poems set in plaster which was the major first work of his career as a visual artist.

Family Flair

Does your kid have a major case of artistic talent? Pick up an art case TrackPack at SMAK to encourage their creativity. Best for kids aged 6+. Children get to complete assignments in the MoosDooss exhibit where they explore and learn about 21 art displays. Best for kids aged 6+. Children over 9 can complete it alone, younger children will need help from an adult! Drop them an email for more info then pick up the pack at SMAK for 30€

SMAK is usually hosting a bunch of temporary exhibits featuring contemporary art. Plus, they host events like artist talks to get that creative mind of yours going.