Supposedly, Switzerland has one of the highest numbers of museums per capita, but we know for sure that it is home to some of the best art museums in the world! Whether you’re a resident or just stopping by in the next few months, you’ll find a great lineup of art exhibitions that should not be missed.
From iconic artists like Vincent van Gogh and Henri Matisse to groundbreaking contemporary art by Marina Abramović and modernist Brazilian artists like Tarsila do Amaral, these exhibitions promise unforgettable experiences for art lovers - so whether you’re captivated by the timeless beauty of modern masters or energized by cutting-edge creativity, Switzerland’s top art museums deserve a spot on your cultural bucket list. Without further ado, here’s your guide to five incredible exhibitions to see before the end of 2024...
1. Matthew Wong and Vincent van Gogh – Kunsthaus Zurich
Dates: Until January 14, 2024
Where: Kunsthaus Zurich, Zurich
Kunsthaus Zurich, one of the top art museums in Europe is hosting the extraordinary pairing of Vincent van Gogh and Matthew Wong. I haven’t been yet, but I can’t wait to see Van Gogh’s post-impressionist masterpieces meet Wong’s ethereal landscapes… The exhibition, named "Painting as a Last Resort", was previously at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, and now Swiss audiences a chance to experience this rare artistic dialogue.
Special Events: The museum offers curator-led tours on select evenings, exploring the connections between the two artists and their shared themes of solitude, color, and emotion.
2. Marina Abramović – Kunsthaus Zurich Art Museum
Dates: Until January 14, 2024
Where: Kunsthaus Zurich, Zurich
While you're at Kunsthaus, visiting the two art bros above, you can also experience the groundbreaking works of Marina Abramović, one of the most influential figures in contemporary art. This retrospective, which began at the Royal Academy of Arts in London before traveling to Zurich, spans her transformative career. This must-see art exhibition also includes interactive installations that allow audiences to engage with the themes of endurance, vulnerability, and human connection central to Abramović’s art.
Special Events: Kind of short-notice, but if you can make it on Wednesday, there will be an opening of Abramovic's "Four Crosses" Installation at Wasserkirche.
3. Henri Matisse: The Colour of Ideas at Fondation Beyeler
Dates: Until January 21, 2024
Where: Fondation Beyeler, Basel
Fondation Beyeler, often listed among the top modern art museums in the world, even though it's a gallery, celebrates Henri Matisse’s legacy in this dazzling exhibition. From his vibrant Fauvist paintings to serene paper cut-outs, Matisse’s work continues to captivate audiences. This show also has some of the lesser known works of Matisse, making it extra impressive.
Special Events: The museum is offering weekend workshops inspired by Matisse’s famous paper cut-outs, where participants can create their own colorful compositions. A lecture series on Matisse's influence on contemporary art will run every Thursday evening.
4. Brasil Brasil: Contemporary Art from Brazil – Zentrum Paul Klee
Dates: Until February 25, 2024
Where: Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern
Zentrum Paul Klee brings a slice of Brazil's dynamic culture to Switzerland with Brasil Brasil. This exhibition explores themes of identity, creativity, and resilience through works by leading Brazilian artists like Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, Djanira da Motta e Silva and Rubem Valentim.
Special Events: The Paul Klee museum regularly hosts concerts and readings, so it's worth coordinating your visit with what is coming up.
5. Daido Moriyama: Retrospective – Photo Elysée
Dates: Until January 7, 2024
Where: Photo Elysée, Lausanne
Renowned as one of the most influential photographers in the world, Daido Moriyama’s retrospective at Photo Elysée is a celebration of urban life through the lens. This exhibition, showcasing his raw and evocative street photography, includes some of his most iconic works from Tokyo and beyond.
Special Events: Sunday 1st December there'll be a guided tour of Moriyama's exhibition.
Pro tip, or warning depending who you are, there's a Christmas market happening at Plateforme10, where Photo Elysee is location, right now...
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