It may come as a surprise that the canton of Ticino is rarely the subject of art exhibitions in German-speaking Switzerland. With romantic notions about the beauty of its nature, the Mediterranean climate and its “Italianità”, Ticino has for centuries attracted not only travelers but also enthralled artists.

From the unique history of Ticino’s master builders, who left their mark all over Europe, to the artists’ colony on Monte Verità, which became both a haven and a stage for cultural creativity in the early 20th century, this is a region entwined in myriad narratives. Now, the Graphische Sammlung ETH Zürich presents a selection from its own holdings showcasing the highlights of creative activity in and around the canton of Ticino from the 17th century to the present day.