Contemporary art museums in Switzerland

The Kunsthaus Zürich is the largest art museum in Switzerland in terms of area. It is home to one of the most significant art collections in the country, which has been assembled over time by the local art association, Zürcher Kunstgesellschaft. The collection spans from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on Swiss art.

The Zentrum Paul Klee (ZPK) in Bern, a museum designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, was officially opened to the public on June 20, 2005. This information is useful for tourists who are interested in architecture and the history of the museum.

The Alpineum is a museum and alpine diorama located in Lucerne, Switzerland. It offers a unique experience for visitors to immerse themselves in the alpine world through large-scale panoramic paintings. The museum is housed in a neoclassical building that is protected as a historical monument.

The Kunsthalle Bern has hosted numerous exhibitions of contemporary art, earning international recognition. It has showcased solo exhibitions by renowned artists such as Paul Klee, Christo, Alberto Giacometti, Henry Moore, Jasper Johns, Sol LeWitt, Gregor Schneider, Eva Aeppli, Bruce Nauman, Lawrence Weiner, Bridget Riley, and Daniel Buren. These exhibitions have significantly contributed to the Kunsthalle's reputation as a leading venue for contemporary art.

The Tinguely Museum in Basel is an art museum dedicated to the life and works of the artist Jean Tinguely. It features a permanent exhibition that provides an in-depth look into Tinguely's artistic journey. Visitors can explore a variety of his works, gaining insight into his creative process and the evolution of his style.

La Collection de l'Art Brut, located in Lausanne, Switzerland, is a unique museum that houses a diverse range of works created by self-taught artists. These artists, for various reasons, lived predominantly in conditions of social and cultural isolation. The museum provides a platform for these artists to express their creativity and imagination, free from cultural and social conditioning.

The Beyeler Foundation is a cultural institution based in Riehen, a town located in close proximity to the city of Basel in Switzerland. This private institution is home to a collection of modern and contemporary art pieces gathered by Ernst Beyeler and his wife Hildy. It is recognized as the most visited art museum in Switzerland, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts visiting the country.

Kunsthalle Zurich is an exhibition institute located in Zurich, Switzerland. It is dedicated to the exhibition and promotion of international contemporary art. This makes it a great place for tourists who are interested in contemporary art to visit and explore the various exhibitions on display.

The Museum of Fine Arts Bern, also known as Kunstmuseum, is a public institution situated in the city of Bern, Switzerland. The museum's primary focus is on Western artistic production, offering a comprehensive insight into various art forms and periods.

The collection of the Coninx Museum, which was built between 1945 and 1980, was diverse and extensive. It included Swiss figurative art of the 19th and 20th centuries, international print graphics, works by old masters, African tribal art, and Far Eastern art.

Schaulager is a private museum located in Münchenstein, in the Swiss canton of Basel-Landschaft. It is dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The construction of the museum began in 2002 and it was officially opened to the public in 2003.

The Museum Haus Konstruktiv in Zurich is a unique institution that focuses on constructive, concrete, and conceptual art. The museum aims to create a dialogue between these art forms and contemporary art, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of art. Visitors can expect to see a variety of exhibitions that showcase these art forms in a new light.

The HR Giger Museum is a unique destination located in the picturesque town of Gruyères, in the Swiss canton of Fribourg. The museum houses an extensive collection of fantasy artworks by the renowned artist HR Giger, who lived from 1940 to 2014. Visitors can immerse themselves in Giger's distinctive and imaginative world, exploring a wide range of his creations.

The Fotomuseum Winterthur, located in Winterthur, Switzerland, is a museum dedicated to the art of photography. Established in 1993, the museum serves as a platform for showcasing the work of contemporary photographers and artists, as well as works by 19th and 20th-century masters. It also features applied photography in various fields such as industry, architecture, and fashion.

The Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts, also known as mudac, is situated in the city of Lausanne in Switzerland. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a unique insight into contemporary design and applied arts. It is located in the heart of the new arts district, Plateforme 10, since June 2022.

The Centre Le Corbusier is a unique architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Zurich, Switzerland. This building is a testament to the creative genius of Le Corbusier, a renowned Swiss-French architect, designer, painter, and urban planner. It serves as a museum and an exhibition space, offering visitors a chance to explore the life and works of Le Corbusier.

The Cartoonmuseum Basel is a unique institution in Switzerland, being the only museum dedicated solely to the art of narrative drawing. This includes a wide range of forms such as comics, graphic novels, cartoons, satirical drawings, and animated films. It's a place where visitors can explore the world of narrative drawing in all its diversity.

The Museum zu Allerheiligen, located in the old town of Schaffhausen, is a significant cultural institution in the region. It is housed in the former Benedictine monastery of All Saints, adding a historical and architectural charm to the museum. The museum's location in the old town makes it easily accessible for tourists and provides a unique backdrop for the diverse collections it houses.

The Aargau Art House, also known as the Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Argovie, is an art museum situated in the city of Aarau in Switzerland. This museum is a significant cultural institution that showcases a wide range of Swiss art, making it a notable destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Kunstmuseum Luzern, established in 1932, is situated within the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre, also known as KKL Luzern. This museum is one of the most significant art museums in Switzerland, renowned for its rotating exhibitions of all genres, including contemporary art.

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, also known as MAMCO, has a rich history that dates back to 1973 when the idea of its establishment was first conceived. However, it was not until 1994 that the museum was officially opened in its own building in Geneva. This information provides a glimpse into the museum's long-standing commitment to promoting modern and contemporary art.

The Kunstmuseum Basel houses the world's oldest public art collection and is widely regarded as Switzerland's most important art museum. Its lineage traces back to the Amerbach Cabinet, which included a collection of works by Hans Holbein that were purchased by the city of Basel and the University of Basel in 1661, making it the world's first municipal and thus publicly accessible museum.

The Sammlung Oskar Reinhart "Am Römerholz" is an art museum situated in the Swiss city of Winterthur. The museum is located in the former residence of Oskar Reinhart, a prominent art collector who lived from 1885 to 1965. Reinhart's extensive collection of art is housed in this museum, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore his diverse and rich collection.

The Art Museum Solothurn, which opened its doors in 1902, is recognized as one of the city's most significant cultural institutions. It offers a rich blend of historical and contemporary art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Centre d'Art Contemporain Genève, founded by Adelina von Fürstenberg in 1974, holds the distinction of being the first contemporary art institution in French-speaking Switzerland. This pioneering establishment has been a significant contributor to the region's cultural landscape for over four decades.

Galerie Gmurzynska, located in Zurich, Switzerland, is a commercial art gallery that specializes in modern and contemporary art. The gallery is particularly known for its collection of works by the Russian avant-garde. This makes it a unique destination for art enthusiasts who are interested in exploring different art movements and styles.

The Kunsthaus Zug is located in a 16th-century complex known as the "Hof im Dorf", situated on the edge of the old town of Zug in Switzerland. The museum has been in existence since 1990, offering visitors a unique blend of historical architecture and modern art.

The HEK (Haus der Elektronischen Künste), previously known as Haus für elektronische Künste Basel, is a museum and cultural center that was inaugurated in 2011. It is dedicated to contemporary art in the field of electronic media. This institution provides a platform for artists to express and reflect on new technologies and media.

Muzeum Susch is a contemporary art museum situated in Susch, in the Lower Engadine region of the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland. The museum was established by Polish entrepreneur, art collector, and patron Grażyna Kulczyk and was officially opened to the public on January 2, 2019.

In May 2008, the Kunst(Zeug)Haus was opened in the main building. The collection of Peter and Elisabeth Bosshard forms the centerpiece of around five thousand exhibits of Swiss contemporary art. The museum offers public tours and workshops for school classes, as well as changing exhibitions. This provides an opportunity for tourists to explore Swiss contemporary art and engage in educational activities.

The Talmuseum Engelberg showcases a diverse collection that reflects the region's history and the rule of the Engelberg Abbey. The collection includes state and legal antiquities, objects of popular piety, and items related to living culture. Additionally, the museum features a collection on tourism and sports history, as well as a collection on the Alps and a relief of the Engelberg region at a scale of 1:10,000.

The Kunsthaus Glarus is a museum and exhibition house situated in the Swiss city of Glarus. It is conveniently located near the train station in Volksgarten, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum was planned as a cultural attraction in a small town, with the aim of attracting visitors from larger cities as well.

The Art Museum of Thurgau, located in parts of the Ittingen Charterhouse in Warth-Weiningen, Thurgau Canton, has been a significant cultural institution since 1983. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse collection of regional and international art in a historic setting.

The Kunstmuseum Olten, located in Olten, Switzerland, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1902. This museum is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving and showcasing art, making it a significant cultural landmark.

The Kunsthalle Winterthur is an art museum situated in the upper floor of the former Waaghaus in the old town of Winterthur. This location is recognized as a cultural asset of national importance. The museum's unique location adds to its charm and offers visitors a chance to explore a piece of Winterthur's rich cultural history while enjoying contemporary art.

The Museum Franz Gertsch, located in Burgdorf, Switzerland, was inaugurated in the autumn of 2002. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a unique insight into the works of the renowned artist Franz Gertsch.

The Fondation de l’Hermitage is a fine arts museum nestled in the city of Lausanne, in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. The museum is surrounded by the serene Parc de l’Hermitage, providing a tranquil setting for art lovers to explore the museum's collections.

The m.a.x. museum in Chiasso is a civic institution that offers a variety of exhibitions and events. These focus on contemporary and historical graphics, visual communication, design, and photography. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore these areas in depth, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in these fields.

The Museo d’arte della Svizzera italiana di Lugano (MASI) is an art museum located in Lugano, Switzerland. It was established through the merger of two previous museums, the Museo Cantonale d’Arte and the Museo d’Arte. The museum officially opened its doors to the public on September 12, 2015.

This playful building houses wide collection of Erwin Rehmann's sculptures and graphics. Temporary exhibitions are worth the visit as well.

The St. Gallen Art Museum, also known as Kunstmuseum St.Gallen, is a significant art museum in Eastern Switzerland. It is conveniently located in the heart of St. Gallen, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of paintings and sculptures, ranging from the late Middle Ages to the present day.

The Migros Museum of Contemporary Art in Zurich is a hub for international contemporary art. It is dedicated to the exhibition, collection, and dissemination of works from this genre. The museum's mission is to provide a platform for contemporary artists from around the world, showcasing their work to a broad audience. It is a place where art lovers can immerse themselves in the latest trends and developments in contemporary art.

The Musée Jenisch is an art museum situated in Vevey. It specializes in works on paper, including drawings, copper engravings, and print graphics. This focus makes it a unique destination for art enthusiasts, particularly those interested in these specific mediums.

Centre Pasquart is a cultural hub situated in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. It is a place where art, culture, and history converge, offering a unique experience for visitors. The center houses several institutions including the Art Center, the Art Center Collection, the Photoforum, the Society of Fine Arts Bienne, the Filmpodium, and free space.

La Congiunta is a unique museum situated on the outskirts of the quaint village of Giornico, in the Leventina valley of Ticino. The museum was designed and constructed between 1989 and 1992 by the renowned architects Peter Märkli and Stefan Bellwalder. Its minimalist design and location provide a serene environment for visitors to appreciate the art within.

The Kunsthalle Ziegelhütte is a museum and cultural center located in Appenzell. It is known for its exhibitions featuring the works of two renowned Appenzell painters, Carl August Liner and his son Carl Walter Liner. In addition to these, the museum also showcases art from the 20th and 21st centuries, providing a comprehensive view of the evolution of art over the years.

The Barbier-Mueller Museum holds the distinction of being the only museum in Europe dedicated exclusively to pre-Columbian art. The works on display span a broad timeline, dating from 1500 BC to the 16th century. This wide range provides visitors with a comprehensive overview of pre-Columbian art and culture.

Creaviva is a children's museum located in the Paul Klee Center in Bern. It is designed for visitors aged four to 88 and serves as a hub for practical, experience-oriented, and interactive art education. The museum aims to guide visitors towards a better understanding of art and self through their own creative activities.

The Jean-Tinguely–Niki-de-Saint-Phalle museum, located in the Swiss city of Fribourg, was inaugurated on March 16, 1998. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the works of artists Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle. It was born out of Niki de Saint Phalle's desire to offer the canton of Fribourg the works of Jean Tinguely. Over time, the museum has been enriched with donations and successive works, particularly those of Saint Phalle.

The Ausstellungsraum Klingental is a unique artist-run space located in Basel. It is organized by a dynamic group of artists, art historians, and art mediators, whose collaborations evolve over generations. This unique setup allows for a diverse and ever-changing array of exhibitions and projects, making each visit to the museum a unique experience.

Since 2018, Villa Flora has been part of the Kunst Museum Winterthur, along with the Museum Oskar Reinhart and the Kunstmuseum Winterthur. It is now known as Kunst Museum Winterthur | Villa Flora. The building is currently undergoing renovations, with a planned reopening in 2024. This development signifies the continued importance of Villa Flora in the cultural landscape of Winterthur.

Kunsthalle Basel, located in the cultural heart of Basel, Switzerland, is a contemporary art gallery with a rich history. Established in 1872, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and still most active institution for contemporary art in Switzerland. This makes it a significant part of the country's cultural landscape and a noteworthy destination for art enthusiasts.

The Winterthur Museum of Art, also known as Kunstmuseum Winterthur, is an art museum located in the city of Winterthur, Switzerland. It was founded in 1848 by an art association that still owns the museum's collection today. The museum is subsidized by the city and the canton, but also relies heavily on private contributions.

The Cantonal Museum of Fine Arts is home to approximately 10,000 artworks. While the collection spans a broad range of periods, it places a particular emphasis on art from the end of the eighteenth century to post-impressionism. This focus allows visitors to explore a significant era in art history.

The Open Art Museum, located in St. Gallen, Switzerland, is a unique institution dedicated to the exhibition and preservation of Swiss Naive Art and Art Brut. These art forms, often created by self-taught artists or those outside the mainstream art world, offer a distinct and fascinating perspective on Swiss culture and creativity.

The Museo Castello San Materno, located in Ascona, Switzerland, is a museum that is affiliated with the Museo Comunale d’Arte Moderna in Ascona. The museum was opened in April 2014 after the restoration of the building. It is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art and historical artifacts.

Villa Meier-Severini is a classical villa located at Zollikerstrasse 86 in Zollikon, a municipality in the canton of Zurich. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Swiss architectural history.

The Kunsthaus Langenthal is housed in Choufhüsi, a heritage-protected house located in the heart of Langenthal. This historic building adds to the charm and appeal of the museum, making it a unique destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Museum of Fine Arts Le Locle (MBAL) is situated in the canton of Neuchâtel, Switzerland. It provides a diverse range of temporary exhibitions three times a year, spread across a 2,000 square meter space. This offers visitors the opportunity to experience a variety of artistic styles and periods throughout the year.

The Sanctuarium Artis Elisarion is a significant monument, museum, and cultural center situated in the Swiss municipality of Minusio. This establishment offers a unique blend of historical and cultural experiences, making it an interesting destination for tourists who appreciate art and history.

The Paul-Gugelmann-Museum, located in Schönenwerd, Switzerland, is home to over 40 sculptures and mobile sculptures by the artist Paul Gugelmann. Visitors to the museum have the unique opportunity to see these works of art demonstrated on site.

The Kunsthaus Grenchen is a Swiss art museum situated opposite the Grenchen Süd train station in the canton of Solothurn. The museum's collection primarily focuses on print graphics of regional, national, and international significance. This makes it a unique destination for art enthusiasts interested in print graphics from various geographical locations.

Established in 1972, this gallery exhibits artworks of different styles. You can also buy the displayed pieces here.

Gallery exhibiting contemporary and "across the borders" art. Especially the art from Near East.

Kunst Raum Riehen is the municipal exhibition building of the Swiss municipality of Riehen. It is managed by the local art commission, which has been organizing art exhibitions since 1972. This long-standing tradition of promoting art makes it a significant cultural institution in the region.

The Musée Visionnaire is a unique private museum situated in Predigerplatz 10, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland. It is dedicated to the exhibition and appreciation of outsider art, a genre of art that is created outside the boundaries of official culture.