Museum Tinguely
About This Museum
You'd never guess a museum dedicated to chaotic, clanking, self-destroying machines could feel so serene, but that's the magic of Museum Tinguely. Perched right on the Rhine, this place is a vibrant shrine to Jean Tinguely's kinetic art, where his mesmerizing meta-mechanical sculptures whir, shake, and clatter to life. Beyond the permanent carnival of Tinguely's own work, the museum constantly refreshes its spaces with sharp temporary shows from other modern artists who play with motion and sound. It’s an absolute delight for anyone who thinks art shouldn't just sit still.
Collection Highlights
The star is undoubtedly 'Méta-Harmonie II', a wonderful cacophony of a piece where piano keys are struck by random hammers and wheels spin for no reason but pure joy. You'll also find remnants and films of his infamous 'Homage to New York', a sculpture that famously built itself in the MoMA garden only to then spectacularly fail to self-destruct.
Visitor Information
It's easy to find on the riverbank in Basel's Solitude Park—a perfect spot for a stroll after being mesmerized by the machines. Check their website before you go; they often have late openings with special events that make the sculptures even more lively.
Architecture & Building
The building itself is a stunning modern design by Mario Botta, all in rich red sandstone. Its long, sleek form hugs the river, with these incredible arched windows that flood the galleries with beautiful, ever-changing natural light.
Contact & Location
Address: Paul Sacher-Anlage, Wettstein, Kleinbasel, Basel, Basel-Stadt, 4070, Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzera/Svizra
Phone: +41 61 681 93 20
Website: Visit Website
