Musée Jenisch

Located in the picturesque town of Vevey, nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, the Musée Jenisch stands as a beacon of artistic heritage and cultural significance. Known locally as the Museum Jenisch Vevey, this esteemed institution is celebrated for its extensive collections of drawings, engravings, and the remarkable works housed within the Oskar Kokoschka Foundation. Since its inauguration on March 10, 1897, the museum has been a cornerstone of the local and international art scene, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the world of fine arts.

The Origins of Musée Jenisch

The Musée Jenisch owes its existence to the generous bequest of 200,000 gold francs by Fanny Jenisch (1801-1881), the widow of a Hamburg senator. Fanny Jenisch, who cherished her time in Vevey, wished to express her gratitude to the town by funding the construction of a museum dedicated to the arts and sciences. Her vision was brought to life by architects Maillard and Convert, who designed the building in a neoclassical style, complete with a replica of the Parthenon frieze adorning its façade. This architectural gem, with its mosaic floors, grand columns, and statues, was officially opened to the public in 1897.

A Journey Through Time

Initially, the Musée Jenisch housed a diverse range of collections, including natural sciences and zoology. Generations of schoolchildren visited the museum to marvel at the taxidermy displays, including a famous giraffe, and to attend drawing classes. However, in the 1980s, the scientific collections were transferred to the Museum of Zoology in Lausanne, allowing the Musée Jenisch to focus exclusively on fine arts. This transition was spearheaded by Bernard Blatter, the museum's director from 1983 to 2004.

Under Blatter's leadership, the museum underwent significant transformations. He orchestrated the integration of the Oskar Kokoschka Foundation in 1989, which brought a wealth of Kokoschka’s works to Vevey. The museum also became home to the Cantonal Prints Cabinet, further solidifying its reputation as a premier institution for works on paper.

Renovations and Modernization

From 2009 to 2013, the Musée Jenisch underwent extensive renovations led by the Lausanne-based architectural firm Bakker & Blanc. The goal was to modernize the century-old building while preserving its historical aesthetic. The renovations included restoring the original mosaic floors, the hall's wall colors, and the frescoes by Swiss painter Ernest Biéler. These efforts ensured that the museum retained its historical charm while providing contemporary exhibition spaces.

Exploring the Collections

The Musée Jenisch boasts an impressive collection, with over 95% of its holdings comprising works on paper. The museum's treasures include 9,500 drawings, 35,000 prints, and 1,300 paintings. Among the highlights are pieces by renowned artists such as François Bocion, whose work Port d'Ouchy was the museum's first acquisition, and Gustave Courbet, whose paintings were donated by his sister.

The Cantonal Prints Cabinet is a focal point of the museum, featuring over 30,000 prints from various collections, including those of the William Cuendet & Atelier de Saint-Prex Foundation and the State of Vaud. The Oskar Kokoschka Foundation, established in 1988, contributes significantly to the museum's prestige, with nearly 1,200 prints and several hundred drawings by the Austrian artist.

Temporary Exhibitions

The Musée Jenisch is renowned for its dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, which showcase a diverse array of artistic styles and periods. Recent exhibitions have included Monique Jacot. Transfers and Heliograms (2020), Courbet Draftsman (2019), and Picasso: Curtain Raiser (2018). These exhibitions not only highlight the museum's rich collections but also engage with contemporary art, offering visitors a broad spectrum of artistic experiences.

Visiting the Musée Jenisch

A visit to the Musée Jenisch is a journey through the annals of art history, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps. The museum's elegant neoclassical architecture, with its grand entrance and intricate details, sets the stage for an enriching cultural experience. Inside, the carefully curated exhibitions and collections offer a deep dive into the world of fine arts, from classical drawings and prints to modern masterpieces.

Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Musée Jenisch promises an unforgettable experience. Its blend of historical charm and contemporary relevance makes it a must-visit destination in Vevey. As you explore the museum's halls, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic legacy that Fanny Jenisch envisioned and that continues to thrive in this beautiful corner of Switzerland.