'Het komt allemaal goed' in the Keizerskapel - The Phoebus Foundation

When visiting an exhibition, one mostly sees the end result: artworks presented in a carefully considered setting, ready to move, surprise, or provoke thought. But behind that apparent effortlessness lies an intense process that takes months of work by an entire team. For Het komt allemaal goed in the Keizerskapel, the initial idea came from writer-singer Rick de Leeuw and Executive Director Dr Katharina Van Cauteren. In the months that followed, they collaborated with a diverse team of project coordinators, scenographers, art handlers, and exhibition builders to bring the exhibition to life.

A spur-of-the-moment idea at the office on an ordinary weekday about a suitable location unexpectedly leads to a Sunday visit to Jean-Pierre De Bruyn, the owner of the Keizerskapel. The concept for the exhibition Het komt allemaal goed immediately appeals to him. Less than a week later, scenographer Lee Preedy joins the conversation. Her experience with scenography in sacred spaces proves to be of immense value. She knows how to respect the centuries-old context while simultaneously creating something that is visually striking. With twelve artworks in mind – carefully selected by Rick de Leeuw – she begins to sketch. Everything revolves around a balance between restraint and impact.

Exterior view of the Keizerskapel, showing its Gothic façade with tall pointed-arch windows and a Baroque entrance, set within a historic streetscape.
The Keizerskapel. © Fris Visuals

As soon as the concept is finalised, the art handlers take over. In their workshop, they build each component of the installation with the utmost precision. From the wooden base structure to the fine finishing touches, everything receives careful attention. Once all the elements are ready, they are transported to the Keizerskapel. There, the construction begins with the installation of a raised floor—the foundation of the entire scenography. This floor quite literally and figuratively lifts the visitor above the everyday. In doing so, the space begins to tell its new story.

Interior of the Keizerskapel during the installation of an exhibition, showing a wooden floor structure in the nave, surrounded by altarpieces, sculptures, and stained-glass windows.
Installation of an exhibition floor inside the Keizerskapel, with technicians working on the placement and finishing of the floor structure among historic altars and stained-glass windows.

With the floor in place, the walls follow, clad in warm red velvet. The deep colour creates an intimate atmosphere that suits the chapel. Here and there, mirrors are integrated—subtly, but with purpose. They break up the perspective and make the space appear larger than it is. Some parts of the box allow you to see beyond, letting your gaze wander through the room. These visual openings create rhythm and curiosity. The visitor is invited to explore.

Installation of a scenographic element in the Keizerskapel, with technicians assembling a red structure as part of the exhibition, set against the Baroque altar.
Technician on a rolling scaffold during the installation of a red scenographic structure in the Keizerskapel, as part of the exhibition setup.
Detail of a red-painted scenographic element in the Keizerskapel, featuring vertical slats set against the chapel’s historic architecture.

Once the structure stands firm, it is time for the artworks themselves. One by one, the twelve pieces are carefully hung, each with attention to light, line, and proportion. The lighting is fine-tuned down to the smallest detail to ensure each work comes into its own. At the same time, security systems are installed and the audio guides are tested. The introductory video also receives a prominent spot at the start of the exhibition route. The entrance area is given one final makeover, including a welcome desk and custom wall coverings.

Installation phase of an exhibition in the Keizerskapel, showing technicians and staff inside a red scenographic pavilion while artworks and lighting are being installed.
Installation of an exhibition pathway in a vaulted corridor of the Keizerskapel, featuring red scenographic walls, lighting, and ladders during the setup phase.
Video presentation integrated into a red scenographic element in front of the Baroque altar in the Keizerskapel, as part of the exhibition.

And then the moment arrives: the doors can swing open to the public.

Gallery view of the exhibition in the Keizerskapel, featuring a red scenographic pavilion placed in the nave, surrounded by Baroque altars, the pulpit, and stained-glass windows.
© Fris Visuals