The iconic artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, renowned for his groundbreaking graffiti-inspired style, is often closely associated with the vibrant art scene of 1980s New York City. However, a new exhibition sheds light on a lesser-known source of inspiration for the visionary artist: the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Entitled “Jean-Michel Basquiat: Engadin,” the exhibition at Hauser & Wirth St. Moritz in Switzerland showcases over a dozen works created by Basquiat in various locations across the Alpine valley region of Engadin, including St. Moritz, Zurich, and Appenzell.
Basquiat’s connection to Switzerland began in 1982 when he first visited the country after meeting Bruno Bischofberger, a Swiss art dealer who became a fervent supporter of the artist’s work. Despite a mix-up with the scheduling of Basquiat’s solo exhibition at Bischofberger’s gallery, the artist found himself captivated by the picturesque setting of Appenzell, which left a lasting impression on him.
During his subsequent visits to Switzerland, Basquiat found solace and inspiration in the tranquil surroundings of the Swiss Alps. One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is the nine-panel artwork titled “Dutch Settlers” (1982), which intricately combines themes of colonialism and slavery with imagery inspired by the Engadin region.
Surrounded by the majestic snow-capped mountains, Basquiat experienced a stark contrast to the bustling streets and fast-paced lifestyle of New York City. This change of scenery allowed him to slow down and explore new ideas, as noted by Basquiat scholar Dieter Buchhart.
In his artworks such as “Big Snow” (1984) and “To Repel Ghosts” (1986), Basquiat reimagined historical events and themes through the lens of the Swiss Alps, exploring concepts of loneliness, spirituality, and artistic collaboration. His time in Switzerland also marked the beginning of discussions with Bischofberger about collaborating with Andy Warhol and Francesco Clemente.
The collaboration with Warhol and Clemente marked a transformative period in Basquiat’s career, highlighting Switzerland not only as a source of inspiration but also as a crucible for artistic innovation.
The exhibition “Jean-Michel Basquiat: Engadin” will be on display at Hauser & Wirth St. Moritz in Switzerland until March 29, 2025. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the intersection of Basquiat’s visionary artistry and the timeless beauty of the Swiss Alps.
