In its permanent exhibition STAM traces Ghent's evolution through to the present day and, wherever possible, even provides a glimpse of the future. This is done by drawing on the 'Ghent collection'. The museum's own STAMcollection is shown to its best advantage. At the same time, the museum also borrows from other institutions in what is known as 'collection mobility'.
However, no display-case or gallery can contain the jewel in STAM's crown, because that is the city itself. Everything STAM contains refers visitors on to the city.
