Graphische Sammlung ETH

Countless tales entwine the cultural landscape of Ticino. For centuries, romantic notions of its natural beauty, its Mediterranean climate and its “Italianità” have not only drawn visitors to this canton but also enthralled artists. A constant stream of rich and diverse artistic approaches flow through and shape the cultural landscape of Ticino.
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. On the one hand, the exhibition references Ticino as a motif: in landscape portrayal, as a hub of artistic production and as an important element in the lives of artists. On the other hand, Ticino is referenced as a cultural space that has provided a base for artists, forming a meeting place for encounters between a wide range of different attitudes and approaches.
The exhibition, curated by Saskia Goldschmid, presents works by Ticino artists and by others with an affinity to the region. The works shown range from the ink drawings of Pier Francesco Mola (1612–1666) and the landscapes of Ludwig Hess (1760–1800) to works by Hans Arp (1889–1966), Imre Reiner (1900–1987), or Anita Spinelli (1908–2010), as well as prints by Mark Tobey (1890–1976) and Flavio Paolucci (*1934) produced by the Lafranca workshop, and even architectural designs by Mario Botta (*1934).

Events at Scientifica

Ticino in the Spotlight. Artists in Italian-speaking Switzerland (guided tour)

Focal point Monte Verità (short lecture)

Cut open! The cross-section as a pictorial principle in art and science (short lecture)