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Jean-Michel Basquiat‘s affinity for the Swiss Alps is the focus of a new exhibition at Hauser & Wirth St. Moritz, running until March 29, 2025. Curated by Dieter Buchhart, a noted Basquiat scholar, the exhibition delves into the artist’s frequent visits to the Engadin region during the early 1980s, a period when he was represented by Swiss dealer Bruno Bischofberger.
Basquiat’s engagement with the Alpine environment is evident in several works on display. “The Dutch Settlers” (1982), a monumental nine-panel painting, intertwines historical and religious references with a depiction of an ibex, native to the Engadin region. Other notable pieces include “Bull Show Three” and “Bull Show Four” (both 1983), which feature imagery inspired by local agricultural events, and “Appenzeller Alpenbitter” (1983), showcasing a black bear against a backdrop of the Wildkirchli mountain range.
During his time in Switzerland, Basquiat immersed himself in local customs, participating in activities such as cross-country skiing and attending the Toggenburg Bull Show. These experiences introduced new motifs into his art, reflecting the region’s culture and landscape. Despite the serene Alpine setting, Basquiat’s encounters with subtle forms of racism persisted, contrasting with the overt discrimination he faced in New York.
This exhibition offers a nuanced perspective on Basquiat’s artistic evolution, highlighting how his interactions with the Swiss Alps influenced his visual language and thematic explorations. By examining this lesser-known aspect of his life, the show contributes to a deeper understanding of Basquiat’s work and the diverse experiences that shaped his creative expression.