Museion

Nestled in the picturesque city of Bolzano in the South Tyrol region of Italy, the Museion is a beacon of modern and contemporary art. This cutting-edge museum, whose name derives from the Greek word mouséion meaning temple of the muses, offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of post-1950s art. Founded in 1985 by a private association with the support of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, the Museion has evolved into a prominent cultural institution that bridges the gap between Italian and German artistic expressions.

The Evolution of Museion

From its humble beginnings in 1985, the Museion has undergone significant transformations. Initially housed in Via Sernesi under the guidance of Pier Luigi Siena and the presidency of Karl Nicolussi-Leck, the museum focused on promoting and documenting visual arts within the historical Tyrol region. By the early 1990s, the Museion embraced a broader, interdisciplinary approach to art, reflecting its commitment to contemporary artistic dialogue. In 1991, the museum adopted its current name, Museion, symbolizing its expanded mission.

Under the leadership of Alois Lageder in 2000, the Museion officially became the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Andreas Hapkemeyer, who directed the museum during this period, emphasized the theme of Language in Art, a fitting focus given the region's multilingual heritage. Subsequent directors, including Corinne Diserens and Letizia Ragaglia, continued to elevate the Museion's profile by curating exhibitions featuring renowned artists such as Monica Bonvicini, Isa Genzken, and Carl Andre. Since June 2020, Bart van der Heide has been at the helm, steering the Museion towards new artistic horizons.

The Architectural Marvel

The Museion's current home, inaugurated on May 24, 2008, is a testament to modern architectural ingenuity. Designed by the Berlin-based firm KSV Krüger Schuberth Vandreike, the building's cubic form and glass facades create a striking visual dialogue between Bolzano's historic center and its newer districts. This architectural masterpiece not only serves as an exhibition space but also as a vibrant cultural hub.

Inside, the Museion's design fosters a seamless interaction between various functional areas. The exhibition space, educational room, conference hall, café, bookshop, and library are all interconnected, promoting a fluid and dynamic visitor experience. The building's transparency and openness are further enhanced by its use of glass, which allows natural light to flood the interior and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the building's unique features is its dual bridges that span the Talvera River, separating pedestrian and bicycle traffic. These bridges symbolize the Museion's role as a connector of communities and cultures. Additionally, the ground floor Passage, designed by South Tyrolean designer Martino Gamper, serves as a versatile space for festivals and events, accessible to the public at all times.

Exploring the Collections

The Museion boasts an impressive collection of approximately 4,500 artworks, with acquisitions supported by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano. The museum's holdings include around 100 pieces donated by collector Enea Righi and approximately 2,000 works on long-term loan from the Archivio di Nuova Scrittura, curated by entrepreneur Paolo Della Grazia.

Visitors can explore the Museion's diverse collection across its three exhibition venues. The main building houses temporary exhibitions, thematic displays, and experimental projects spread over four floors. The museum's iconic glass facades also serve as canvases for video, photo, and animation projections, transforming the building into a dynamic art installation after dark.

Just a stone's throw from the main building, the Casa Atelier provides a residence for artists, fostering creativity and collaboration. Meanwhile, the Piccolo Museion - Cubo Garutti, located in the Don Bosco district, brings contemporary art into the public sphere. This miniature museum, created by artist Alberto Garutti in 2000, showcases works from the Museion's collection and site-specific projects, rotating every three months.

Engaging the Community

The Museion is committed to making contemporary art accessible to all. Its educational department, active since the 1990s, offers a range of programs designed to engage diverse audiences. From guided tours and workshops to tailored activities for teenagers, families, and schools, the Museion strives to foster a meaningful dialogue between art and the community.

The museum's library, open to the public, specializes in modern and contemporary art. It houses a growing collection of around 21,000 volumes, including subscriptions to twenty specialized art magazines and a multimedia archive. In January 2011, the library's holdings were integrated with those of the Free University of Bolzano, further enriching its resources.

Controversies and Conversations

The Museion has never shied away from provoking thought and sparking debate. Its exhibitions often challenge conventional norms, leading to public and media discussions. Notable controversies include the 2008 scandal surrounding Martin Kippenberger's Zuerst die Füße, a crucified frog sculpture that drew ire from political and religious groups, including a letter from Pope Benedict XVI. Another contentious piece was the 2006 installation by goldiechiari, featuring the Italian national anthem accompanied by a flushing toilet sound, which led to legal action for desecration.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The Museion actively collaborates with various public and private entities to support contemporary art. Through partnerships with organizations such as the Fondazione Sparkasse, Dena Foundation for Contemporary Art, and the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, the Museion offers scholarships and residency programs for artists and curators. These initiatives underscore the museum's commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering international artistic exchange.

In conclusion, the Museion in Bolzano is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural institution that celebrates the ever-evolving world of contemporary art. With its innovative architecture, diverse collections, and commitment to community engagement, the Museion invites visitors to explore, reflect, and be inspired by the art of our time.