Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The ‘Tentuinstelling’ sculpture route in Knokke-Heist features 14 locations, including AZ Zeno Hospital and Scharpoord Cultural Centre. Organiser Luc Michils highlights art’s role in healing and everyday life.
As VRT News reported, the sculpture route called ‘Tentuinstelling’ in Knokke-Heist has become a well-known cultural event that mixes art with the natural and old buildings in the area. Over 400 works of art by 67 artists are located along 20 20-kilometre walking and cycling trail in Knoke Heist. It covers 14 different places where visitors can see sculptures in many types of settings.
These include private gardens, a farm that grows organic food, the local art school called MAAK, and 2 newly fixed-up buildings: the Sint-Niklaaszaal and the rectory in Westkapelle. Officials mentioned that it invites people to take their time, think, and connect with the art and the space around it.
How does Knokke-Heist’s Tentuinstelling sculpture route connect art, healing, and nature?
According to officials, a 20-kilometre route for walking and cycling has been carefully planned to help visitors see the sculptures while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The path starts at 2 places: the AZ Zeno Hospital, which links art with healing, and the Scharpoord Cultural Centre, a lively place for local art and culture.
The organiser, Luc Michils, says the main idea behind ‘Tentuinstelling’ is to take art out of museums and galleries and place it in everyday places. This way, people can discover, feel, and connect with art in their daily lives. He mentioned that this project not only adds to the cultural life of Knokke-Heist but also creates chances for people to meet, enjoy nature, and experience creativity together.
AZ Zeno hospital is one of the most important and special places taking part in the ‘Tentuinstelling’ sculpture route. The hospital’s general manager, Patrice Buck, says art is very important for healing. He explains that having a warm and nice environment with art helps patients and visitors feel better. It lowers their stress and helps them recover faster.
He mentioned that because of this, art is a key part of how the hospital cares for people. The sculpture route happens during a special time, on the Ascension and Pentecost weekend. To take part, visitors must buy an access badge that costs 15 euros. This ticket lets people visit all the places with sculptures and includes a catalogue that explains the artworks and the artists.
Visitors also get a map for cycling or walking to follow the whole 20-kilometre route. Officials mentioned that tickets can be bought easily at 2 main places: AZ Zeno hospital and the Scharpoord cultural centre. These 2 spots are also where the route officially starts. They said that this setup makes it simple for anyone to explore the mix of art, nature, and local culture that the ‘Tentuinstelling’ route offers.
