Free walk-in tour of Gestel and De Smet - every Sunday

Every Sunday 2 p.m. & 3 p.m.

April 24 to September 13, 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, one of the most important innovators of Dutch art with your own eyes. A free guided tour starts every Sunday at 2 p.m. at 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
The tour starts at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. and lasts about 45 minutes. The tour starts in the foyer. Reservations are not possible; there is room for a maximum of 15 people. Participation is free with a valid admission ticket.

Children and youth under 18 always have free admission to the museum.