Jobaaj Stories
Münchenstein: Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms at Freilager Platz
Art Basel transforms Basel into a global art mecca, but the artistic energy extends beyond the main fair. This year, Münchenstein, a charming municipality bordering Basel, played host to a captivating public art installation: Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms at Freilager Platz. This unique water pavilion, a "liquid sculpture" as Hein describes it, captivated visitors of all ages during Art Basel 2023 and beyond.
A Liquid Landscape of Surprise and Interaction
Appearing Rooms is an interactive experience unlike any other. Four towering water walls, each over two meters high, form a square enclosure. Within this watery frame, four independent walls shift and change, creating ever-evolving spaces that visitors can enter, explore, or simply observe. The unpredictable rhythm of the rising and falling water adds an element of playful surprise, encouraging spontaneous interaction.
Hein himself emphasizes the social aspect of his work. While the element of surprise remains key, he's less interested in prescribed reactions and more focused on sparking curiosity and fostering dialogue. The installation invites contemplation and playful engagement, blurring the lines between art and everyday life, inviting both participation and observation. The flowing water, transparent walls, and surrounding square offer an ever-changing canvas of light, reflection, and human activity.
Accessibility and Public Engagement in Münchenstein
Located in the public Freilager Platz, Appearing Rooms embodies Hein's commitment to accessible art. No museum entry fee or membership is required; the work is free and open to everyone. This exemplifies his broader approach to art in public spaces, where the artwork engages with and seamlessly integrates into the community's daily flow, fostering a sense of shared experience. Its open accessibility makes it a truly democratic experience, bringing art to the people.
Beyond the Pavilion: Art Basel's Extended Reach in Münchenstein
Appearing Rooms wasn’t the only artistic highlight in Münchenstein during Art Basel 2023. The Kunsthaus Baselland, soon to relocate to the Dreispitz area of Münchenstein, hosted a series of exhibitions and events, further solidifying the region's position on the wider art Basel map. These events, including artist talks and exhibitions featuring prominent artists like Pia Fries and Simone Holliger, showcased the breadth and depth of contemporary art beyond the main fair's confines, making Münchenstein a significant part of the Art Basel experience.
Experience the Art
While Appearing Rooms' run at Freilager Platz has concluded, the experience underscores the power of public art to transform spaces and engage communities. Visiting Münchenstein, whether during Art Basel or throughout the year, offers a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary art and discover the vibrant cultural landscape of this Basel neighbor.
