The museum as sundial: galleries become lines through time
In Museum as Sundial, the Van Abbemuseum brings together art, design, archaeology and play. The project opens on 17 October during Dutch Design Week, using the central gallery as an orientation point.
A sundial makes time visible through light and shadow. The Van Abbemuseum uses that idea as the framework for Museum as Sundial, a project combining contemporary art, design, archaeology and play. It runs from 17 October 2026 through 21 February 2027 in the museum’s Old Building.
The museum says the original building, dating from 1936, was designed in relation to the sun. The project aims to make that relationship tangible again: the central gallery becomes an orientation point, while the surrounding rooms form “vectors”. The language is spatial, but the question is simple: how does light shape the way you move through a museum?
Director Defne Ayas developed the concept. Participants include Ana María Millán, Kiki & Joost, Gala Porras-Kim, Michael Portnoy, Ayumi Paul and John Körmeling. Studio Diogo Passarinho designed the spatial layout; Studio Remco van Bladel created the graphic design.
The presentation also brings in archival and collection material, including works from the Rhoda Kellogg International Child Art Collection, ABC artist books and the National Archive of Brabant Folk Songs. Mandala drawings by Anne Frank, on loan from the Anne Frank House, are also included.
The opening programme on 17 October is scheduled for 14:00 to 18:00. Ayas opens the event at 14:00, followed by a performance by the museum choir with Ayumi Paul. Separate registration is required for Michael Portnoy’s The Fifth Place. Check with the museum whether you need a ticket for the opening.
According to the practical information page, the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00, with an extra opening on Monday 19 October. It is closed on 11 October. Adult admission is €16; children aged 12 and under and Museum Card holders enter free.