Free guided tour
Elke zondag 14.00 uur & 15.00 uur
3 mei t/m 13 september 2026
Join the free walk-in tour of the Gestel and De Smet exhibition. The tour guide will take you around, interpret the objects and answer your questions.
View the works of the grand master of Flemish expressionism Gustave De Smet and Leo Gestel, een van de belangrijkste vernieuwers van de Nederlandse kunst met eigen ogen. Elke zondag start om 14.00 en 15.00 uur een gratis rondleiding in Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar.
An artistic exchange
In 1914, the Flemish artist flees Gustave De Smet (1877-1943) because of the outbreak of World War I to the Netherlands. There he soon made friends with Leo Gestel (1881-1941), who introduced him to the Amsterdam art world. This marks the beginning of an intensive artistic exchange. The Smet changes of style significantly during this period, influenced by Gestel and the artists of the Bergen School.
The artists constantly inspire each other. The Smet adopts innovative elements from Gestels work and vice versa, Gestel was later influenced by the themes and stylistic features of The Smet.
Boundless friendship
In 1922, the artists' paths parted for several years: The Smet returns to Flanders and Gestel leaves for a long journey through Germany and Italy. In 1925, the Gestel who, because of a marital crisis, seeks refuge elsewhere. From 1925 to 1927 he stayed in Flanders at The Smet, where their artistic exchange is revived.
The letters between the artists testify to a long and deep friendship. This warm and colorful bond is felt throughout the exhibition. Significant combinations of their works are supported by the correspondence they exchanged. The exhibition shows how friendship affects their art and takes the visitor into the tumultuous lives of two artists who continue to support each other during the highs and lows of their existence.
Practical
De rondleiding start om 14.00 en 15.00 uur en duurt ongeveer 45 minuten. De rondleiding start in de foyer. Reserveren is niet mogelijk, er is plek voor maximaal 15 personen. Deelname is gratis met een geldig entreebewijs.
Children and youth under 18 always have free admission to the museum.