La Boverie — Attraction in Liège

La Boverie in Liège is an absolute gem that left me in awe! This stunning museum, set in a beautifully renovated building within the serene Parc de la Boverie, offers an incredible blend of fine arts and captivating exhibitions. The permanent collection, featuring masterpieces from the 19th and 20th centuries, is impeccably curated, with works by artists like Monet and Picasso displayed with insightful context that brings each piece to life. The temporary exhibitions were equally impressive, showcasing innovative contemporary art in a way that felt fresh and engaging. The staff were exceptionally welcoming and knowledgeable, offering thoughtful insights that enriched the experience. The modern architecture, with its light-filled galleries and views of the Meuse River, creates a perfect ambiance for art lovers. The museum shop and café were delightful bonuses, offering unique souvenirs and tasty treats. An unforgettable cultural experience - highly recommend and I’m already looking forward to...

Nice museum, that tries to fill the gap for a (quasi) contemporary art space in Liège. However, don't be fooled, as is more like a fine arts museum stuck in the year of 1900 than something else. It doesn't have the ambition to be something more, despite the occasional temporary exhibition that tends to focus on more recent art.

Do not expect multimedia installations, thought-provoking discussions on art practice, video art, or any of the things that can increasingly be found on modern art museums. This is domesticated art, curated and chosen to sit nicely and without disruption on the wall of some regional bourgeois benefactor's mansion (some of them even associated with this museum). They even have watercolor contests (!!) - see image.

Worth a visit, but try to clear your mind of your usual art museum expectations before setting foot there, or you will be...

The exhibitions proposed by this museum are of a constant great quality, with a intelligent focus on a particular aspect of art and society, which I find truly interesting. The library of the museum offers a really great selection of books, related to the theme of the exhibit, and an accurate choice of books about art, Belgium, Liège, books to introduce kids to art, original and creative gifts, at a very affordable price! The permanent collection downstairs is also really interesting, with antique pieces, famous painters and a sensual sculpture of Rodin. The museum is located in one of the most beautiful places of Liège, a majestuous park on a small Island, connected to the Calatrava station with a brand new footbridge.

If you go to Liège, count 2h30 to visit the museum...