An unfinished symphony. Polyphony in the collection.

Mu.ZEE launched a collection valuation process in November 2018. Mu.ZEE employees thoroughly went through and examined part of the museum’s collection in collaboration with various partners in the socio-cultural field. The significance of the collection and how various works of art are of value to the museum were reflected on and contemplated. In the autumn of 2019, Mu.ZEE will review the outcomes of this participatory project. The results achieved will be presented at an exhibition that provides a splendid perspective into the museum's activities and collection, along with a host of new issues and rationales that sweep the public along on a journey through Mu.ZEE’s history and its future.

What does it mean to value a collection? Which criteria do we adopt during this type of valuation process? What do we know and how should we proceed? The museum's mission and vision are what shape the theoretical framework of the valuation project. As a museum of modern and contemporary art in Belgium, we have a role to play in society. By valuing our works of art, we imbue these creations with meaning and contextualise them. We raise awareness about our artworks and attempt to come up with new interpretations and connections that we can present to visitors through exhibitions and digital access to the collection.

On the one hand, our valuation was carried out by an internal valuations team, while on the other, Mu.ZEE relied on an external sounding board that is part of its broader network. We are interested in telling you about the participatory approach we adopted for this pilot project. But above all, we would like to invite you personally to help us value a work of art or an ensemble. Because valuation isn't just the task of a single person...