Switzerland Guide
Bern
Zentrum Paul Klee
The glittering Zentrum Paul Klee was built to showcase the artist's creative output and is reason enough, by itself, to visit Bern. This magnificent building was designed by the architect Renzo Piano with a steel roof that undulates in three fluid, graceful waves, or "hills". The northern "hill" is dedicated to Klee the teacher and musician; below this part of the roof is a children's museum, Creaviva, and a subterranean concert hall staging works inspired by Klee's art. The southern "hill" focuses on Klee the researcher and mathematician, housing a research centre and archive relating to the artist.
However, the main draw is the superb gallery occupying the central section of the building. This holds over four thousand works by Klee, the largest such collection in the world, comprising almost half of his total output. The permanent exhibition on the ground floor displays two hundred works at a time, changed twice a year, while the basement level stages four annual shows focusing on Klee's contemporaries or highlighting cultural/historical themes. This means that you can't be certain which works will be on display when you visit – but the experience of viewing any of Klee's art in such a breathtaking space is well worth the visit. Check the website for details of the occasional gallery tours in English (free) and the regular programme of music events. Onsite are a shop, café and restaurant.
Opening time: Tues– Sun 10am–5pm, Thurs until 9pm
Price: Fr.14
Website: www.zpk.org