Nestled amidst the bustling art scene in Basel lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored year-round – Zurich. While Basel shines during its famous art week, Zurich offers travelers a unique and vibrant creative landscape that is often overlooked.
Imagine checking into a luxurious hotel surrounded by stunning artworks only to realize that one of the guests is not what they seem. This surreal experience became a reality for visitors at the Dolder Grand, an opulent retreat perched on Zurich’s wooded hills like a magical castle overlooking Lake Zurich.
The Dolder Grand, originally established as a spa retreat in 1899, has evolved into more than just a luxury destination; it has become a living gallery showcasing over 100 works by renowned 20th- and 21st-century artists. As you explore the property adorned with pieces by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró, you’ll discover that Zurich’s artistic spirit runs deep.
“Zurich is understated but buzzing,”
remarks Jacqueline Uhlmann, manager of Löwenbräukunst art center in Zurich-West.
“There’s a quiet confidence and collaborative spirit here driven less by trend and more by substance.”
Public artwork adorns every corner of the city, turning mundane spaces into unexpected bursts of beauty. From underpass murals to whimsical sculptures in public parks, Zurich’s artistic flair can be seen everywhere. The city’s commitment to artistry is evident through programs like Kunst im öffentlichen Raum (KiöR), which has overseen the creation of over 1,300 public artworks.
One might think that creativity only thrives in designated cultural spaces, but Zurich surprises even within its police station walls. Augusto Giacometti’s vibrant fresco ‘Blüemlihalle’ welcomes visitors at the entrance without any arrest warrant necessary – proving that art knows no bounds in this city.
Venture beyond Zurich’s medieval cobblestone streets towards the industrial district of Zurich-West along the Limmat River, and you’ll witness a transformation unlike any other. Once an industrial hotspot, this area has metamorphosed into a dynamic creative hub pulsating with artistic energy.
At Löwenbräukunst – housed within a repurposed brewery – institutions such as Kunsthalle Zürich and Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst coexist alongside galleries like Hauser & Wirth and Francesca Pia. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in diverse artistic expressions ranging from kinetic sculptures to avant-garde paintings while enjoying vegan cuisine at Bistro LOI.
Jacqueline Uhlmann emphasizes that Zurich’s strength lies in its diversity and proximity:
“It offers a highly active contemporary art scene with galleries, institutions,
collectors all within walking distance.”
In the heart of old town stands Kunsthaus Zurich – Switzerland’s largest fine arts museum housing masterpieces by Marc Chagall and Alberto Giacometti among others. This cultural haven not only reveres traditional artworks but also embraces cutting-edge exhibitions exploring digital realms like NFTs alongside feminist narratives.
Art isn’t confined to galleries alone; it spills over into hotels across Zurich offering guests immersive experiences beyond traditional museum settings. At establishments like Boutique & Art Hotel Helvetia or 25hours Hotel Zürich West designed by Alfredo Häberli,
art seamlessly integrates into hospitality creating unforgettable stays for visitors seeking something more than just accommodation.
Markus Granelli from Dolder Grand highlights how art enriches guest experiences: “Unlike in traditional museums,
guests encounter art in relaxed atmospheres encouraging observation
and conversation.”
Whether sipping cocktails inspired by artworks or marveling at larger-than-life sculptures scattered throughout hotels,
Zurich invites you to engage with creativity on every level.
From Duane Hanson’s lifelike ‘Traveller’ sculpture at Dolder Grand to iconic pieces dotting public spaces,
Zurich doesn’t just display art; it embodies it as part of everyday life.
As Jacqueline Uhlmann aptly sums up:
“It’s not just about displaying; it’s about creating.”
