Stadsmuseum 't Schippershof

In the heart of Menen, Belgium, a charming and historic gem awaits your discovery: Stadsmuseum 't Schippershof. This delightful museum, housed in a building dating back to the 17th century, offers a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Menen's history and art. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, 't Schippershof promises an engaging and enriching experience.

The History of 't Schippershof

Originally serving as a coaching inn, 't Schippershof stands as one of the last remaining witnesses of Menen's early days. The building's strategic location near the old Leie bridge and fortifications made it a bustling hub of activity in the early 20th century. The Leie River, now flowing about 300 meters away, once lapped at the building's side, a testament to the ever-changing landscape of the city.

Architecturally, 't Schippershof is a treasure trove. The painted facade and intricate glasswork are particularly noteworthy, while the side of the building still bears the scars of its strategic past, including an old cannonball embedded in the wall and several gunports. These features hint at the building's role in the city's defense and its storied past.

In the early 20th century, 't Schippershof was more than just an inn; it was a vibrant social hub where travelers and locals alike could find food, drink, and lodging at all hours of the day. The building was even one of the first in Menen to have a telephone, a symbol of its importance and modernity at the time. During World War I, the inn transformed into a mini-barracks, providing shelter and rest for soldiers stationed near the front lines, just 11 kilometers away.

The Museum

On February 28, 1986, the city of Menen decided to purchase 't Schippershof with the vision of transforming it into a museum. The goal was to preserve and showcase Menen's artistic heritage, as stipulated in the wills of two notable local artists, Georges Dobbels and Yvonne Serruys. The museum officially opened its doors in 1998, and since then, it has been a beacon of culture and history in the city.

Initially, the museum featured a permanent exhibition with rotating temporary exhibits in one of its rooms. However, since 2016, 't Schippershof has shifted its focus to exclusively hosting temporary exhibitions. These exhibits often feature visual arts and are sometimes linked to the city's history or current events. The museum's exhibitions frequently engage in a dialogue with those at the nearby De Steiger Cultural Center, creating a dynamic cultural exchange.

't Schippershof also manages its own collection, which serves as the foundation for many of its temporary exhibitions. This collection includes works by several prominent artists with ties to Menen.

Artists in the Collection

Yvonne Serruys

Yvonne Serruys (1873-1953) was a sculptor born in Menen who found her calling in the world of sculpture. Her life and work are documented in a book written in collaboration with the people of Menen. Serruys' monumental works, created at a time when female sculptors were rare, are considered classic, despite her resistance to classicism in her art.

Georges Dobbels

Georges Dobbels (1910-1988) was born in 't Schippershof and went on to make a name for himself in Brussels. His early works were rooted in classicism, but he later transitioned to more abstract and figurative forms. Towards the end of his life, Dobbels also created monumental works, including the sculptural facade of the Royal Library in Brussels.

Alfred Wallecan

Alfred Wallecan (1894-1960) was another Menen-born artist who studied in Brussels and Roubaix before moving to Paris, where he stayed with Yvonne Serruys. Wallecan taught secondary education and later became the director of the Menen Drawing School. Known as a Leie painter, his works include notable dune views near his summer residence in Sint-Idesbald.

Johan Tahon

Johan Tahon (1965) is a contemporary artist from Menen who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Ghent in 1989. His work, considered modern art, revolves around the creation of dreamlike worlds.

Stadsmuseum 't Schippershof is more than just a museum; it's a portal to Menen's past and a celebration of its artistic heritage. Whether you're exploring the historic building, marveling at the art, or delving into the stories of the artists, 't Schippershof offers a rich and rewarding experience. So, when you find yourself in Menen, make sure to step through the doors of 't Schippershof and immerse yourself in the history and culture of this charming Belgian city.