The Fondation Gianadda in Martigny, Switzerland, continues its prestigious cultural mission despite the passing of its founder in late 2023. The foundation is currently hosting an exceptional exhibition featuring masterworks from the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, showcasing pieces by legendary artists including Paul Gauguin, Titian, Rubens, and Rembrandt. This collaboration represents the fulfillment of one of founder Léonard Gianadda's final wishes and demonstrates the institution's commitment to international cultural exchange.
The exhibition features one of the crown jewels of the Hammer Museum's collection: Vincent van Gogh's hallucinatory view of the Saint-Rémy-de-Provence psychiatric asylum, painted during his stay there in 1889. This remarkable work exemplifies the quality of pieces that the Los Angeles museum has lent to the Swiss institution, continuing a tradition of cultural partnership that transcends borders.
François Gianadda, son of the late founder, has taken over the leadership of the foundation, ensuring continuity of its remarkable cultural dynamism. Since its opening in 1979, the institution has maintained an impressive track record of hosting dozens of temporary exhibitions of international caliber. The building itself, designed by Léonard Gianadda who was an engineer by profession, presents an austere concrete cube that is beautifully complemented by a rich sculpture garden and a collection of vintage automobiles housed in the basement.
The foundation has consistently paired its visual art exhibitions with prestigious musical performances, including recent recitals by renowned soprano Cecilia Bartoli. This harmonious combination of visual and performing arts has become a hallmark of the institution's approach to cultural programming.
Despite Martigny being a commune of just over 22,000 residents, the foundation has successfully attracted an extraordinary array of artistic treasures over the years. The venue has hosted works by masters ranging from Leonardo da Vinci to contemporary artists like Pierre Soulages and Zao Wou-Ki. Throughout the seasons, the foundation has presented exhibitions featuring Turner, Manet, and many other celebrated artists.
The current exhibition from the Hammer Museum represents more than just a loan of artworks; it symbolizes the realization of Léonard Gianadda's ultimate vision for international cultural collaboration. The partnership between the California institution and the Swiss foundation demonstrates how art can bridge continents and bring world-class cultural experiences to audiences regardless of geographic location.
This ongoing commitment to excellence in cultural programming ensures that the Fondation Gianadda will continue to serve as a vital cultural destination in the heart of the Swiss Valais region, honoring its founder's legacy while building new connections with prestigious institutions worldwide.
