KUNSTHAUS - ZURICH

Zurich's principal art gallery is the Kunsthaus. It is mainly a modern art gallery with a sizeable 'Old Masters' traditional collection. It's definitely worth a visit as it houses one of the best collections of modern art in Europe. The building or I should say buildings are very complex as it is a series of gallery spaces evolved from very different architectural styles over the last century as can be seen in the photographs. The collection is huge and very well represented by leading artists and art genres.

Adam und Eve by Augusto Giacometti.

It's a pity Google maps doesn't work inside a building as it is so confusing to find your way around. The up side is that around every corner is another amazing piece, and not an unmade bed in sight. That actually is a slight criticism the fact that the Hirst's, Emin's and the like are not well represented. Perhaps they are too risky for the Swiss gallery curators? Most of the pieces are 'paintings', two dimensional, there is very little sculpture or assemblage.

Three Studies of the Male Black by Francis Bacon.

Well we like a bit of Bacon! That aside it is excellent with all the big names. If you were to go I would suggest you miss out the 'Old Masters' galleries. Whilst they are excellent the whole gallery is so extensive that you get to the stage you're 'arted' out. Do the modern first then do the Old Masters if you feel you can take more.

Margaret by Geoff Evans.

The next photograph of a painting was part of a collection of huge pieces, all about 4-5 metres wide by Holder. They are a bit strange with a definite bias. Sexual? I'll let you decide.

Youth Admired by Women by Ferdinand Holder.

I hope that hasn't been too much modern art? One final painting was notable for the hanging. The room this painting was installed was a beautiful Art Deco room the only focus and the only art work was this striking piece.

Tableau No.1 by Piet Mondrian.

The good news, after all the art, the gallery does have a decent restaurant.