Hasselt Jenevermuseum Opens Exhibition on Alcohol Abuse: 'We Have Always Highlighted the Dark Side of Alcohol'

Hasselt's Jenevermuseum is set to unveil a new exhibition, 'The Shadow of the Bottle,' exploring the historical fight against alcohol abuse through visual media. Opening on Saturday, the exhibition delves into the late 19th century, a period when images were increasingly employed as a tool to address societal issues surrounding drinking.

The museum aims to shed light on how early visual technologies were harnessed for public health campaigns. Visitors will experience how rudimentary projection methods, such as magic lanterns and the nascent forms of cinema, were utilized to convey cautionary messages to the public about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.

'The Shadow of the Bottle' promises to offer a unique perspective on the history of social reform and the evolving role of media in shaping public opinion. By examining these historical campaigns, the exhibition highlights the long-standing efforts to combat alcohol misuse and the innovative ways societies have attempted to raise awareness.

The exhibition not only focuses on the negative aspects of alcohol but also acknowledges the broader context. A spokesperson for the museum noted, "We have always highlighted the dark side of alcohol" in their programming, indicating a commitment to presenting a balanced and historically informed view.

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We have always highlighted the dark side of alcohol