The Huis van Alijn, a museum dedicated to daily life, faces an uncertain future. With over 71,000 museum visitors and 311,000 site visitors annually, alongside an active community of 606 Friends, 9 puppeteers, and 36 volunteers, the museum is an important cultural beacon in Ghent and Flanders.
The Flemish government plans to cut 47 million euros from culture, resulting in a 30% annual reduction in the Huis van Alijn's operating grant of 485,000 euros. This figure represents not just a budget line, but also the people working behind the scenes.
These individuals are responsible for collecting, registering, digitizing, conserving, and restoring objects, images, and stories that connect generations. Their work enables exhibitions that foster wonder, reflection, and dialogue. Last year, they facilitated over 297,000 online and physical collection visits, supporting researchers, teachers, and creative makers.
Furthermore, they organize public activities, educational packages, museum games, and well-being programs that create an inclusive environment. Technical staff ensure the safety of the collection and the site, while volunteers, museum friends, café staff, and the puppeteers of Pierke van Alijn contribute to the museum's unique atmosphere.
The potential closure of the museum raises questions about the future of affordable, accessible culture, warmth, encounters, and meaning in daily life. The museum appeals for support to keep the light on.
“"What remains of a house that welcomes more and more people, but receives fewer and fewer resources to keep its doors open?"
On Thursday, October 15th at 6 PM, Huis van Alijn, Amsab-ISG, Liberas, Kina, and De Boekentoren will symbolically auction some of their most socially valuable heritage pieces to highlight what is at stake with the Flemish government's 47 million euro cultural savings. Presence and support are encouraged.
