DCA sees the KMSKA as a key instrument for forging sustainable connections

DCA ON ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FINEST MUSEUM  

Construction company and property developer DCA has a deep passion for Antwerp and the arts. It is therefore not surprising that it has chosen, with full conviction, a long-term commitment to the KMSKA. Director Luc Neefs provides some insight.

Why do you consider it important to engage in this kind of partnership?

Luc Neefs: “DCA doesn’t want to be just an economic and commercial company, but also a business that gives back to society. For example, we sponsor the football club Beerschot and support the construction of a new youth training center. Around 600 young players can train and receive coaching there every week. We also support the breast cancer organization Think Pink and Kom op Tegen Kanker. More recently, we have supported the REACH research by the Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), investigating the effects of air pollution on young children.”

Why did you choose the KMSKA?

“The KMSKA is a brilliant asset for Antwerp’s international profile. The museum project on the Zuid also aligns with our vision of urban development. It is a beautiful example of how historical heritage can be restored and integrated with a new building within an existing structure. A contrast, yet it forms a coherent whole and works exceptionally well. The impressive art collection has also been invisible to the public for far too long. We are happy and excited that it will soon be on display for everyone to admire again.”

What is your favorite work or who is your favorite artist in the collection?

“The paintings of Rubens remain truly remarkable. We witnessed the solemn rehanging of The Baptism of Christ from 1604, the first work to be brought up from the museum’s vaults. An impressive and moving moment. Rubens is an artist who draws people to the museum. A fascinating and versatile figure, a superstar and a flagship for Antwerp. In addition, there is the magnificent James Ensor collection, the largest in the world of this equally remarkable compatriot. Two absolute showstoppers that many envy us for.”

What is your company most looking forward to during this partnership?

“Of course, we are looking forward to the solemn reopening in September, with all the accompanying drums, trumpets, and the festive weekend. A glorious moment that will bring many people and a sense of pride to the city. I also hope, of course, that it will reflect positively on our company. We want our employees and their families, as well as our business partners, to enjoy the museum.

We are fully committed to a long-term engagement. We want to use the KMSKA as a key instrument for forging sustainable connections.

We also hope for fruitful cross-pollination. We have been working with Think Pink for five years and would like to involve them in this partnership and co-events at the museum. In October, an event will also take place at the KMSKA in collaboration with our partner UZA for the REACH research.”

And the ultimate dream?

“The ‘Sleeping Beauty of the Zuid,’ nothing less than an Antwerp icon, is about to awaken. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to bring all Beerschot supporters to the museum, allowing them to enjoy not only exciting football but also beauty and art? And if Antwerp chairman Paul Gheysens were to become a museum partner and offer the same experience to his supporters, wouldn’t that make a fantastic statement? After all, the museum is there for all of Antwerp.”