The “Huis van Alijn” Museum in Ghent is looking for party objects from across Flanders and Brussels for its new exhibition on 100 years of nightlife. 'We hope that partygoers, party organisers and bar staff will send in material. We want to portray nightlife in its entirety: from dancing to jazz bands, organs, jukeboxes and DJs to festivals. We are very curious.'
Ghent museum appeals for photos, videos and objects for exhibition on 100 years of nightlife
Colin Clapson
Published:
On 4 July, the new exhibition “C'est Party!” opens at the “Huis van Alijn”, the Museum of Daily Life in Ghent. The museum wants to showcase 100 years of the history of nightlife in Flanders and Brussels. ‘It covers a period from the “Roaring Twenties” to the “Pandemic Twenties”. It's very broad and we're still looking for additional material,’ says researcher Eva Dierckx.
The museum is launching an appeal for photographs, videos and objects to be sent in. ‘Many things are needed: flyers, posters, festival wristbands and clothing. We are not only looking for images from dance halls, dance cafés and mega discotheques. We also want to map out the subcultures. Stories and testimonies are welcome!’
‘We only use images for which people have given their consent’
The appeal has been made because little has been preserved from certain periods. ‘People who go out on the town are obviously not concerned with documenting it. It's a fleeting event,’ explains Dierckx. ‘Each generation went out on the town in a different way, with different habits and customs. It would be great to actually see that'.
‘The intention is to use the things sent in by members of the public in the exhibition. We realise that some photos and images may feature people who would rather not be shown. We will only use material with their permission. Not everyone wants to be reminded of their wild nights out,’ Dierckx laughs.
The “Huis van Alijn” is also planning a publication on this subject, which may use some of the material sent in. The most interesting items may also be included in the permanent collection.