The Swiss Art Scene

Interview about the Swiss art scene, Art-Beats, and my art practices now available via Rigby AG’s youtube channel.

From Greenland to Switzerland

The interview by Kathrin Spinnler from Rigby AG touches on topics like my artistic journey from growing up in Greenland, my years in the Philippines, and ultimately ending up in Zurich, Switzerland. The interview also includes first impressions of life in Switzerland, and a mapping of the Swiss art scene.

The Swiss Art Scene

The Swiss art scene, with its high number of museums and funding opportunities, provides ample opportunities for artistic engagement. The country’s excellent infrastructure allows easy access to various art venues across all the biggest cities. Zurich’s Kunsthaus and other major museums offered a wealth of exhibitions and events, while initiatives like free museum admissions on certain days make art accessible to all.

Among the highlighted venues in Zurich include Haus Konstruktiv, known for its focus on constructivist art and engaging exhibitions, and the more underground venue Rote Fabrik, which offers an alternative cultural experience. Beyond Zurich, venues are highlighted in cities like Basel, renowned for annual art fair Art Basel and institutions like the Fondation Beyeler and Kunstmuseum Basel.

Creating art in Switzerland and some advice

Depending on your level and intention of your artistic practice, there are several options for emerging professional professional artist and for people wanting to get started. There are availability of atelier spaces throughout major cities like Zurich, often listed on specialized websites or the canton’s website, which provides artists with affordable and conducive environments for creation.

For beginners, I share some recommendations such as engaging in workshops offered by art supply stores like Bösner, which provide a social and educational introduction to various art forms. For those aiming to pursue art professionally, attending vernissages, subscribing to gallery newsletters, and applying for residencies are essential steps. Cities like Zurich and Basel, with their rich art scenes and robust infrastructure, offer numerous opportunities for networking and growth.

Have a listen to the full interview and browse through the various topics covered tagged in the timestamp.

Interview on Living in Switzerland podcast

On December 8, 2023 I was featured in an interview conducted with Kathrin Spinnler for Rigby AG and their podcast series Living in Switzerland.

The podcast is called The Swiss Art Scene with Nikolai Kleist Burkal can be found here. (available on various podcast platforms)

The series aims to provide information about various aspects of moving to and living in Switzerland for both a new and residing audience, and for foreigners and Swiss alike.

In the podcast I am asked to talk about my practice as an artist, my background and living in the Philippines, as well as the approach the Swiss art scene. I try to give an overview of the the various art venues and institutions across the big cities in Switzerland, how to approach art scenes as an artist, and advice on how to develop and expand your options as an artist in Switzerland.

The interview captures very well what I want to achieve with Art-Beats, to investigate current topics in art, document art scenes, share perspectives on art, and ideally engage a new audience.

Please have a listen at the podcast, and I hope you enjoy it.