1. Art in Another Dimension

Art Basel Unlimited is a platform for art projects that go beyond the classic exhibition stand. Curated for the fourth time by Giovanni Carmine, it features monumental installations, large-scale sculptures, expansive video projections, and live performances. This year, 70 large-scale installations will be showcased, including three live performances.

The Unlimited Night on June 13, 2024, offers extended opening hours and special performances. For the first time, visitors can vote for their favorite work, and the Unlimited People's Pick will be announced at the end of the fair week.

2. Gallery Sector of Art Basel

Location of the Volta Artfair Basel, Klybeck 610 (Image: Nicholas Winter)

Art Basel hosts a large selection of galleries across multiple floors. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, it is advisable to make a selection and set priorities beforehand. Which art form interests you the most: youth art, design, film, or classical works?

A well-thought-out plan helps to make the most of your time and get the best out of your visit. For better orientation, it is recommended to take the exhibition guide available at the entrance.

3. Discovering Satellite Fairs

In addition to Art Basel, there are numerous satellite fairs. The Liste Art Fair Basel, founded in 1996 by young galleries, is the oldest and most significant international discovery fair for young contemporary art. Each year, a younger generation of galleries showcases artists who are outstanding representatives of the latest developments in contemporary art.

Since 2005, VOLTA Basel has supported ambitious galleries in entering one of the international art market capitals. The 19th edition of the fair returns to the intimate setting of Klybeck 610 and is the first under the direction of Artistic Director Lee Cavaliere. In 2024, it promises to be the most global event yet, with over 45 galleries from 24 countries.

A new addition this year is the art fair The Digital Art Mile by ArtMeta, which specializes in NFTs and digital art. The fair takes place from June 10 to 16 along Rebgasse, and entry is free. According to Georg Bak, Artistic Director, the fair aims to provide content and context through its curatorial program and contribute to the canonization of digital art history.

4. Photo Basel

Visitors to Photo Basel 2023 (Image: Photo Basel)

The Photo Basel is Switzerland's first and only photography art fair, taking place parallel to Art Basel from June 11 to 16 at Volkshaus Basel. It is dedicated exclusively to art photography and serves as an integrative platform connecting actors of the art world both online and offline.

According to Sven Eisenhut, the fair's director, the show aims to actively contribute to the dialogue about art photography and make it more accessible.

5. Art in an Air Raid Shelter

Since 2019, there has been the June Art Fair, an international art fair and exhibition platform. It stands out for its open format and intergenerational participant selection.

The show is located in an iconic concrete bunker redesigned by Herzog & de Meuron. Its manageable size and proximity to Messeplatz and Art Basel make it a significant destination during the art week in Basel.

6. Jewels, Watches, and Art

Relaxing in the park of the Fondation Beyeler (Image: Mark Niedermann)

From June 16 to 18, Jewels Basel, an intimate jewelry show, will be held in the baroque Villa Wildt'sches Haus. The preview takes place on the evening of June 15. The show is considered a platform for independent jewelry designers and artisans.

In addition to jewelry, this year, well-known watch brands, galleries, and artists will also be featured. Exhibitors include Robert Procop, who designed the engagement ring for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

7. The Oasis of Calm

For those seeking a haven of tranquility amidst the art hustle and bustle, a visit to the Fondation Beyeler in Riehen is recommended. The museum's park invites visitors to linger in good weather. This year, the museum stands out with a special exhibition where visitors can even spend the night.

The «Dream Bed,» a robot bed by Carsten Höller and Adam Haar, synchronizes sleep stages and dream intensity with movements of the bed. Once a week, visitors can stay overnight here from 8:00 pm to 8:00 am. Tickets can be booked online, with prices starting from 700 Swiss francs, varying to make a night at the museum accessible to every budget.

•  For more information, follow this link: Art Basel