Kunstmuseum St.Gallen: A Treasure Trove of Art

The Kunstmuseum St.Gallen is a vibrant cultural center in the city, renowned for its captivating temporary exhibitions and a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. The museum's collection spans from the late Middle Ages to the present, featuring Swiss, Dutch, French, and other European works. The museum's neoclassical building, designed in 1877 by Johann Christoph Kunkler, provides a beautiful setting for art appreciation. The collection includes Dutch paintings from the 17th century, German art from the 19th century (Romanticism to Impressionism), and works from the fin de siècle. Modern art is represented by Kirchner, Taeuber-Arp, Klee, and Warhol, along with installations by Merz, Serra, Paik, Signer and Rist. A unique collection of Appenzeller Bauernmalerei (Appenzell peasant painting) is also on display. One of its prized possessions is Federico Barocci's 'Saint Sebastian,' a rare piece, being one of only six similar paintings still in existence. The Kunstmuseum actively engages with the community through educational programs and collaborations, making art accessible to all. The museum also has a second venue, the Kunstzone in the Lokremise, which serves as a culture lab for contemporary art, fostering synergies with cinema and dance/theater. The museum's coffee shop, designed in collaboration with artist Caro Niederer, provides a space for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments amidst unique art installations.