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Shadow Creatures Discovery Lab

Moles, bats and salamanders: these shadow animals are often unfamiliar, and therefore not widely loved. Time to change that. Discover their world in this creative drop-in lab.

Saturday 16 May 2026 until Sunday 11 October 2026 from 10:00 to 19:00

 

Create and experiment

In the imaginative world of Monster Chetwynd, you don’t just look at art—you become part of it. For this exhibition, the artist drew inspiration from the animals in the park and the interplay between art and nature.

Moles, bats and salamanders don’t only appear in her work, they also live in the Middelheim Museum. They are often unfamiliar, and therefore less loved—unfairly so! In the Shadow Creatures Discovery Lab, you’ll discover just how remarkable they are. You don’t just observe. Here, you can feel, explore, experiment and create, together with others.

Step into an imaginary underground world of moles. Experience how a bat finds its way. Create your own colourful salamander head—and take part in a playful performance with your creations!

Photo contest

Pose with your artwork on the boardwalk at the Salamander Portal. Take a photo and share it on Instagram using #FriendsMakingMachine and tag @middelheimmuseum. Make sure everyone in the photo has given permission. Your account must be public.

You can participate until 11 October. The winner will be announced on 12 October. The most surprising entry wins a music tool to create your own beats and tracks.

Good to know

  • for families
  • no reservation required
  • location: Atelier Van Lieshout, Franchise Unit
  • open during opening hours
  • free

 

Facilitated workshops

On selected afternoons, a facilitator is present:

  • May (from 16 May) — Wed, Sat & Sun, 1 pm - 5 pm   
  • June — Wed, Sat & Sun, 1 pm - 5 pm   
  • July — Tue to Sun, 1 pm - 5 pm
  • August — Tue to Sun, 1 pm - 5 pm
  • September — Sat & Sun, 1 pm - 4 pm
  • October (until 11 October) — Sat & Sun, 1 pm - 4 pm 

 

Let's have fun together

  • Open to everyone
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
  • On selected afternoons during the exhibition, a facilitator is present:
  • During busy times, the facilitator helps keep the space pleasant for everyone
  • Feel free to take your creation home, or display it here
  • Please leave the space tidy