Posted: August 24, 2026
New exhibition From Water to Land: Jan van Scorel and Pé Okx
A unique map by Jan van Scorel forms the starting point for an exhibition on landscape, water, and imagination.
Starting October 10, the exhibition at Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar is To be seen from water to land. The exhibition starts from a special design by Renaissance artist Jan van Scorel (1495–1562) and new work by contemporary artist Pé Okx. Discover how imagination has played a role for centuries in the way people shape their landscape. Historical and contemporary art guide you through an exhibition about water, land, and human influence on our living environment.
A visionary design by Jan van Scorel
An imposing map by Jan van Scorel from the National Archives forms the heart of the exhibition. The original design shows how Scorel used his artistic imagination for a concrete societal issue: the embanking of the Zijpe, an area that was vulnerable to floods for centuries. This ambitious plan arose in the final phase of his life and shows a surprising aspect of his artistry.
From this historical design, visitors discover how artists through the centuries have contributed to the transformation from water to land. At the same time, the exhibition invites reflection on human influence on the landscape—a theme that, in an era of climate change and rising sea levels, is more relevant than ever.
Sixteenth-century and contemporary art in one exhibition
Alongside historical paintings, maps, and designs, work by contemporary artist Pé Okx is on display. In his work, he explores the relationship between humanity, nature, and the landscape. By displaying his work alongside that of Jan van Scorel, a dialogue is created between the past and the present. The exhibition shows how ideas about change and water management are still important and how imagination helps to continually reshape the landscape.
Digital experience stimulates the imagination
Visitors can also get hands-on themselves! In a digital experience, visitors are given the opportunity to use their imagination to change the landscape around them. This installation is being developed by technology partner Hypersolid, in collaboration with secondary school students. They are contributing ideas about the design, stories, and experience of the installation, thereby providing a contemporary perspective on the history and future of the Dutch landscape.
Practical information
From water to land is a van October 10, 2026 through February 28, 2027 to see in Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar.More information and tickets via www.stedelijkmuseumalkmaar.nl
The exhibition is part of the multi-year program New Level, old ground and is made possible by the support of BPD Cultural Fund.