Open-Air Gallery: how art transformed a construction site in Basel
- ALEKS
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
A public art initiative in Basel
In 2023 and 2024, the historic Rheingasse in Basel became a vibrant open-air gallery, thanks to an ambitious public art initiative spearheaded by Eleven Ten Studio and the restaurant Zum Schmale Wurf. With the street undergoing construction, this collaboration turned an otherwise disruptive process into a dynamic cultural experience, bringing art directly into the public space and engaging the community in a unique way.
Art in public spaces has long been a powerful tool for community engagement, and this initiative in Rheingasse was no exception. Over 30 Swiss and international artists had the opportunity to showcase their works on large-scale banners displayed across the construction site. These temporary installations not only beautified the area but also provided artists with a high-visibility platform to present their work outside traditional gallery spaces.
A collaborative vision
The project was the result of a partnership between Eleven Ten Studio, an independent art space committed to promoting emerging and mid-career artists, and Zum Schmale Wurf, a well-known restaurant in Kleinbasel with a strong focus on cultural engagement. Since its opening 20 years ago, Zum Schmale Wurf has regularly hosted art exhibitions, making it one of the first establishments in Basel to integrate art into its concept. Both organizations share a vision of fostering creativity and making art more accessible to the public, and the transformation of Rheingasse into an art corridor exemplified their shared commitment.
The initiative was open to artists working in various disciplines, from painting and photography to digital and conceptual art. Selected artworks reflected diverse themes, from social issues and environmental concerns to abstract explorations of form and color. The large-scale presentation of these works in an urban setting allowed for new interactions between art and audience, with passersby encountering contemporary works in their daily routines.
Reimagining Urban Spaces
Urban development projects often disrupt the rhythm of city life, but the Rheingasse initiative demonstrated how construction sites can be reimagined as cultural spaces. Rather than being an eyesore, the construction zone became a source of inspiration, prompting conversations about the role of art in urban landscapes and the importance of integrating culture into city planning.
The banners not only served as a visual enhancement but also invited reflection on the evolving identity of Basel’s public spaces. By engaging with the initiative, locals and visitors alike became active participants in the artistic dialogue, rather than passive observers.
Community engagement and impact
A key aspect of the project was its emphasis on inclusivity. The art displays were accessible to everyone, free of charge, making contemporary art available beyond the walls of museums and galleries. This accessibility helped break down barriers that can sometimes make art feel exclusive or distant from everyday life.
Additionally, the project created opportunities for discussion and engagement within the community. Events and informal gatherings encouraged interaction between artists, local residents, and business owners, fostering a sense of collective involvement in shaping the cultural character of Rheingasse.
As Basel continues to evolve as a cultural hub, initiatives like this reinforce the city’s reputation as a place where art and everyday life intersect. The Rheingasse project not only provided a temporary artistic intervention but also sparked conversations about the long-term role of public art in shaping the urban experience.
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