In this exhibition, you will see well-known and lesser-known martial arts and discover what motivates millions of people to fight. Because a martial artist is always fighting - first and foremost with himself, with the goal of personal growth, both physical and spiritual. It helps them deal with violence as well as stress and insecurity.
Moreover, martial arts is not just about the individual. Instead, it is often about the club, the neighborhood or the community. Traditions, styles and rituals connect people. Many martial arts have had a role in strengthening communities.
For this expo, ErfgoedLab and Sporting A delved into the Antwerp world of martial arts and collected many personal stories and objects. You will see that Antwerp has a very rich history of martial arts that is still evolving with the city today.
So put this expo in your agenda. Become a spectator, supporter or go into battle yourself, imagine yourself a champion and be amazed by the power of body, mind, beauty and community in the global and Antwerp art of martial arts. This exhibition was created in collaboration with the Wereldmuseum.
To be visited from April 3 to November 29, 2026.
