VAN ABBEMUSEUM

It is the city's museum of modern art housed in a historic 1936 red-brick building by architect A.-J. Kropholler. A new modern wing was built, while the old building was renovated under the auspices of the Amsterdam architect Abel Cahen. His first project, which wanted the new wing above the old building, was rejected and he chose to modify it and place the new wing behind the building. The library, the entrance and the museum store are designed by the Flemish designer Maarten van Severen. The museum was renovated almost 20 years ago. The collection was started in 1909 by the cigar manufacturer Henri van Abbe, and includes works by Carel Willink and Isaac Israëls. It includes 1,000 sculptures, 700 paintings and 1,000 various prints. The Stijl, Expressionism and Surrealism movements are well represented. The museum includes the largest collection of works by El Lissitzky, of the constructivist movement. The museum's café-restaurant is worth a visit. We liked the light well of the new wing with its modern art presented in a real showcase. The viewpoints overlooking the Dommel river are particularly pleasant and you should take the elevator for an incredible sound experience. Note that the temporary exhibitions are presented in the old building while the modern extension houses the permanent collection. Do not miss the superb statue of Honoré de Balzac by Auguste Rodin.