Mu.ZEE in Ostend Embarks on Extensive 3.5-Year Renovation Journey

Ostend (Eurotoday): Mu.ZEE in Ostend will close for 3.5 years for renovations, enhancing art preservation and visitor comfort, and reopening in 2028.

Mu.ZEE, which was once called the Provinciaal Museum voor Moderne Kunst, opened in 1986 and hasn’t been renovated since. Director Bruno Verbergt says the old building needs updates to meet modern standards. The renovation plans aim to enhance the museum with improved insulation, new heating and cooling systems and upgraded elevators for better accessibility. The exterior will be modernised. The project aims to make visitors more comfortable with better facilities, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone who comes.

What major improvements will Mu.ZEE in Ostend undergo during its 3.5-year closure?

The museum will close for 3.5 years to make major improvements and ensure the right conditions for its important art. While the construction will take less time, at least six months will be spent testing new systems to maintain the right temperature and humidity for the artwork, which is very important for keeping the art safe. When everything is done, Mu.ZEE will reopen as a modern and energy-efficient space, ready to protect its collection and give visitors a better experience.

The museum is closing for a bit, but some art will be shown at other places, like the Permekemuseum in Jabbeke and the Peiremuzee in Knokke-Heist. There will be a new show in the Venetian Galleries about “the sea.” This is a chance to share art around the country, including a big exhibition at the Felix Art & Eco Museum in Drogenbos. Art not on display will be kept safe in storage in Ostend and other spots. The staff will be busy making these exhibitions and listing all the art, which will be ready when the museum opens again in 2028.