The sculpture route ‘Tentuinstelling’, a pun on the Dutch word ‘tentoonstelling’ (exhibition) and ‘tuin’ (garden) has by now become an established event in the jet set seaside resort of Knokke-Heist (West Flanders). Artworks are spread across 14 special locations, including private gardens, an organic farm, the MAAK art academy, and the recently renovated Sint-Niklaas hall and presbytery of the hamlet of Westkapelle.
‘Each place contributes to the unique atmosphere and is an invitation to slowness, wonder and encounters,’ the organisers note.
The AZ Zeno Hospital, together with cultural centre Scharpoord, is one of the 2 starting points. A 20-kilometre cycling and walking route has been mapped out. ‘We bring art outside the walls of galleries and museums and invite everyone to discover, experience and meet,’ says organiser Luc Michils.
That a hospital is also participating is quite remarkable. ‘In our hospital, art is not decoration, but an essential part of care,’ says director Patrice Buyck. ‘We believe that a warm, inspiring environment helps people feel better, reduces stress and promotes recovery.’
You can still take part in ‘Tentuinstelling’ during the forthcoming Whitsun weekend. An entry badge costs 15 euros and entitles you to a catalogue and a cycling route map. Tickets are available at AZ Zeno and cultural centre Scharpoord.