SMK Director Astrid la Cour (left) and paintings conservator Tanja Larsen (right). Photo: Statens Museum for Kunst
NEWS 23. September, 2026
SMK Prepares the New Collection Display
Major foundation grants will enable SMK to embark on an ambitious transformation of its collection displays, bringing Denmark’s national art collection to life in new ways and making it even more accessible and relevant to more people. Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects will work closely with the museum to develop a new, flexible exhibition architecture.
Over the coming years, SMK – the National Gallery of Denmark will transform the presentation of its collection, which spans 700 years of art history. The changes will involve refurbishments and new architectural interventions in 6,700 square metres of gallery space, while respecting the character of the original building.
”One of the museum’s most important responsibilities is to keep our cultural heritage alive and to create settings and conditions that allow new perspectives to emerge. Heritage only becomes truly shared when many different people can see something of themselves in it, be challenged by it and make it their own”, says SMK Director Astrid la Cour
A flexible framework for the future
The design of the new galleries will be rooted in respect for the existing buildings and with long-term adaptability in mind. Particular emphasis will be placed on making the museum easier to navigate, improving physical accessibility and bringing the historic qualities of Vilhelm Dahlerup’s original museum building more clearly to the fore.
Works will be brought out of storage and returned to the museum from palaces and government ministries, allowing visitors to encounter many works that have rarely, if ever, been on public display before.
More modular display structures will facilitate changes and adaptations of the galleries over time, making it easier to forge new connections across the collection. New approaches to public engagement, interpretation and digital tools will also make it easier for visitors to find their own way through the art, whatever their age, background or prior knowledge.
While the work is under way
SMK will remain open throughout the project period despite the building work and the complex logistics involved. Only one collection area will be closed at a time. The first will be European Art (1300–1800), which closes in November 2026. The museum’s many other activities will continue as usual, supplemented by events and behind-the-scenes content offering visitors a closer look at the work involved in creating the new collection displays.
Photo: Joakim Zuger
Read the press release at smk.dk