Museum of Contemporary Art, Basel

Museum of Contemporary Art, Basel

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Basel (Kunstmuseum Basel) stands as a pioneer in the European art scene, having opened its doors in 1980 as the continent's first public museum exclusively dedicated to contemporary art. It is recognized as a heritage site of national significance, underscoring its importance to Swiss cultural heritage.

Nestled on the idyllic banks of the Rhine in Grossbasel, the museum is part of the larger Kunstmuseum Basel complex, which also includes the Hauptbau and Neubau in the city center. Housed partly in a former 19th-century paper mill, the museum blends historic architecture with modern design, symbolizing its role as a bridge between tradition and innovation.

The museum showcases a rich collection of contemporary art spanning from the 1960s to the present. Its focus extends beyond traditional media like painting and sculpture to embrace video art and other innovative formats. Key artists featured in the collection include Joseph Beuys, Bruce Nauman, Rosemarie Trockel, Jeff Wall, and influential American figures such as Robert Gober, Elizabeth Peyton, and Matthew Barney. Many of the works are drawn from the Emanuel Hoffmann Foundation, whose remaining holdings are housed at the Schaulager in Muttenz.

While the museum’s permanent collection features monumental pieces, often post-1990, its dynamic program of temporary exhibitions keeps the experience fresh and engaging. These exhibitions explore both established and emerging artists, reflecting global trends and local influences, ensuring a thought-provoking experience for all visitors.

Adding to its prestige, the Museum of Contemporary Art plays a pivotal role in Basel’s reputation as a global hub for contemporary art, further cemented by the annual Art Basel fair, which attracts art lovers from around the world. A visit to this museum is not just a journey through cutting-edge art but also a testament to Basel’s enduring cultural vibrancy.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Basel. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Museum of Contemporary Art on Map

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30 m
100 ft
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors
Sight Name: Museum of Contemporary Art
Sight Location: Basel, Switzerland (See walking tours in Basel)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery

Walking Tours in Basel, Switzerland

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