The vision of Art Basel’s founder, Ernst Beyeler, has lead to startling results that have not only created a commercial hub for galleries, visitors, and museums during the Art Basel dates, but extending far beyond to meaningful exploration of the city. Art Basel is truly about experiencing the Bigger Picture.

The offerings outside the Fair proved to be as exciting as the Fair itself, giving  quieter moments of view and engagement.

At Kunstaholle Basel, Turner Prize Nominee,  Luke Willis Thompson, (African descent from New Zealand, born 1988) presented an unusual performance piece, with film, piano, haunting sounds and presence. Titled  '_Human',  the single screen, 3-minute,  35mm silent film projection,  “strange and luminous… appears for just a few fleeting frames and then blackness.“

KunstMuseum Basel offered a traditional collection of European Modernist work, the best of which was the stunning staircase and art work featured in the natural light.

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Further afield is the Fondation Beyler, housed in a Renzo Piazo building.  

The founder, Ernst Beyeler (1921–2010), was a Swiss art dealer and collector, who became "Europe’s pre-eminent dealer in modern art”, carries on his legacy through the Foundation’s collections which  encompass over 260 works – selectively featured across 19 galleries. Sited in extensive grounds and boasting a sculpture garden featuring works by Jenny Holzer and Alexander Calder, the building’s minimalist architecture marries space and natural light,  illuminating artworks to a level of spirituality.

A highlight of this Basel Experience, was the TATE private viewing of the Ulig & Rita Sigg collection, graciously hosted by the couple, and housed in an idyllic 17th century castle situated on an island, about an hour’s drive from Basel.

“A man’s home is his castle” takes on literal meaning here, where the framework offered extensive opportunity for living with art. Art is everywhere — in the bathrooms, kitchen and bedrooms — in addition to public spaces. Ulig’s study furniture is designed by close friend, Ai Wei Wei. We were treated to an extensive tour by Ulig, through all rooms, including attic.  

The days were not enough. I should have scheduled for 5 days in total to breathe in more of the visual and culinary delights of Basel. I did relax with a fresh Swiss milk cappuccino at the Market Square just before heading to the airport. And then it was a wrap for me here – until next year.  

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