The Fondation Beyeler unveils a compelling 2026 programme, bringing together modern masters and cutting-edge contemporary artists. Located in Riehen near Basel, the museum continues to position itself as one of Europe’s leading institutions for modern and contemporary art, combining historical depth with forward-thinking exhibitions. 

The 2026 calendar is structured around three major exhibitions—dedicated to Paul Cézanne, Pierre Huyghe, and Ruth Asawa—alongside a thematic collection display titled Sensations. Together, these shows create a dialogue between modern art heritage and experimental contemporary practices.

Cézanne Exhibition (January – May 2026)

The year opens with a major monographic exhibition dedicated to Paul Cézanne, running from 25 January to 25 May 2026. 

For the first time in its history, the Fondation Beyeler devotes a full exhibition to Cézanne, focusing on the final and most influential phase of his career. Around 80 paintings and watercolours are brought together from international collections, highlighting key subjects such as landscapes, portraits, still lifes and bathers. 

The exhibition emphasizes Cézanne’s revolutionary exploration of form, light and colour, which laid the foundation for modern art and influenced generations of artists.

“Sensations” Collection Display (February – April 2026)

Running from 21 February to 26 April 2026, Sensations offers a thematic journey through highlights of the Fondation Beyeler’s collection. 

Inspired by Cézanne’s concept of “colour sensations,” the exhibition reflects on perception and visual experience, linking historical works with contemporary interpretations. 

This exhibition acts as a conceptual bridge between the Cézanne retrospective and the rest of the programme, reinforcing the museum’s curatorial coherence.

Pierre Huyghe Exhibition (May – September 2026)

From 24 May to 13 September 2026, the Fondation Beyeler presents a major exhibition by Pierre Huyghe. 

Known for his immersive and often unpredictable environments, Huyghe is one of the most influential figures in contemporary art. The exhibition is conceived specifically for the Fondation Beyeler and will include newly created works alongside key pieces from recent years. 

Huyghe’s practice blurs the boundaries between art, biology and technology, transforming exhibition spaces into evolving ecosystems that challenge traditional museum experiences.

Ruth Asawa Retrospective (October 2026 – January 2027)

The programme concludes with a landmark retrospective of Ruth Asawa, on view from 18 October 2026 to 10 January 2027. 

This is the first European retrospective dedicated to the artist, offering a comprehensive insight into her pioneering work. Asawa transformed simple materials—particularly wire—into intricate, floating sculptures that dissolve the boundaries between abstraction and figuration, art and craft. 

The exhibition highlights her unique ability to merge technical precision with poetic spatial forms.

A Year Bridging Modern and Contemporary Art

The 2026 programme at the Fondation Beyeler demonstrates a clear curatorial vision: connecting the legacy of modern art with contemporary experimentation. From Cézanne’s foundational innovations to Huyghe’s immersive environments and Asawa’s sculptural poetry, the museum offers a multi-layered exploration of artistic perception and form.

This balance between historical depth and contemporary relevance reinforces the Fondation Beyeler’s position as one of Europe’s most important cultural destinations.

With its carefully curated exhibitions and strong thematic coherence, the Fondation Beyeler’s 2026 programme stands out as a must-see for art lovers, curators, and photographers alike. Whether exploring Cézanne’s influence, experiencing Huyghe’s evolving installations, or discovering Asawa’s delicate structures, visitors are offered a rich and immersive journey through art history and its future.

All images courtesy of Fondation Beyeler.

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