The exhibition Swiss Art Awards is part of Switzerland's oldest and most renowned art competition. The competition was first held in 1899 as a selection process for scholarships to study abroad. Over time, it evolved into a prestigious national prize competition which every year presents a selection of current works from the Swiss art scene.The Swiss Art Awards exhibition is organized by the Federal Office of Culture and held in conjunction with Art Basel in Hall 4 of Messe Basel. This year, 78 contemporary works are on display which the Federal Art Commission and the Jury of the Kiefer Hablitzel Foundation have selected from approximately 700 submissions. These works are complemented by six architectural projects - they are also presented on site in the form of installations - and by the entries of 18 Swiss art and architecture critics and curators. From these nominees the Federal Art Commission and the Kiefer Hablitzel Jury select the prize winners shortly before the exhibition opens. Additionally within the framework of the exhibition the Dr. Georg and Josy Guggenheim Foundation gives out awards to selected artists.For the international expert audience gathering in Basel for the Art Basel event every year, the Swiss Art Awards provides an excellent opportunity to obtain information, on the basis of a selected cross-section, on the latest highlights of Swiss contemporary art and the big names of the future. With the preview held on June 10, 2013 followed by the party at Volkshaus Basel, and the breakfast & cafe operation during the entire week the Swiss Art Awards furthermore constitutes the annual meeting place for the Swiss art scene where artists, curators, critics, art gallery owners and collectors can network and initiate new projects.Special Events:
Mon, June 10 | Preview
Mon, June 10 | Opening Party at Volkshaus Basel