The Pursuit of Knowledge

This autumn, ‘The Pursuit of Knowledge’ brings you eye to eye with an astonishing selection of items from KU Leuven’s study collections: from stuffed birds and fluorescent minerals to Congolese gourds and casts of world-famous sculptures. The exhibition reveals how academic heritage sheds light on the past whilst asking provocative questions about the present. 

Discover KU Leuven’s rich and varied study collections in ‘The Pursuit of Knowledge’, as part of the university’s 600th anniversary celebrations. From scientific instruments and items from the Museum of Zoology to objects that bear witness to the university’s colonial history: every exhibit has a story to tell about how knowledge was gained and passed on. The collections once played an active role in research and education at the university. Each room of the exhibition features a large photograph by the fine-art photographer Karin Borghouts, depicting the places where KU Leuven’s study collections are stored. 

The exhibition emphasises that knowledge never stands still. For example, the African collection and the photos and films by the 19th century neurologist Arthur Van Gehuchten raise critical questions today. These changing perspectives show how science, society and heritage are constantly moving. 

Curatorial team: Annelies Vogels, Liesbet Nys, Tjamke Snijders, Joris Vandendriessche, Rajesh Heynickx