Gestel and De Smet

Colorful friendship

April 24 - September 13, 2026

Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar shows the colorful friendship between the grand master of Flemish expressionism Gustave De Smet and Leo Gestel, one of the most important innovators of Dutch art. The exhibition shows how their lives became intimately intertwined and how they influenced each other both artistically and personally. A story about friendship in both light and dark periods of life. 

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. 

Public Activities 

An extensive, richly illustrated catalog, written by guest curator Kees van der Geer, will be published alongside the exhibition. There is also an audio tour developed by spoken word artists Sjaan Flikweert and Jorgen Unom. Visitors can also get started writing their own haiku at the writing table: a hushed place to turn impressions into Japanese poetry. 

Practical information 

The exhibition opens April 24, 2026, and can be visited through Sept. 13, 2026.

The exhibition was made possible in part by the Jaap Harten Fund, the Cultural Fund, VVNK and the Countess of Bylandt Foundation. Special thanks go to The Phoebus Foundation.