MAMCO, Geneva's Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, has launched its latest exhibition, "MAMCO, from Memory," today, marking a significant moment in the museum’s history as it prepares for an extensive renovation. The exhibition, which runs until December 22, 2024, offers visitors a unique, audience-driven experience, allowing them to engage with the museum's collection in a novel and participatory manner.
Lionel Bovier, MAMCO’s director
A Democratic Approach to Curation
The exhibition is distinguished by its democratic approach to curation. Rather than being guided by curators, the selection of artworks was made by the public, providing a rare opportunity for the audience to take ownership of the museum’s collection. "It's a fascinating experiment," said Lionel Bovier, MAMCO’s director. "This initiative underscores the idea that our collection is a public one, belonging to the audience, not just the curators or patrons. We hope this approach deepens the connection between the public and the art, reinforcing that this collection is theirs to share and explore."
Julien Fronsacq, the exhibition's curator, expressed a similar sentiment, noting the unpredictability and excitement that came with letting the public choose the pieces. "We didn’t know what to expect when we invited the public to select the works they wanted to see again before the museum's temporary closure. The result is a mix of rigorous, academic selections and more subjective choices that reflect both historical art movements and personal, emotional connections to the pieces."
Fronsacq also highlighted how the exhibition reflects MAMCO's engagement with contemporary cultural dialogues. "Our collection now encompasses diverse global trends, addressing issues of gender, identity, and cultural diversity. While society often moves faster than institutions, this renovation period gives us a moment to catch up, reflect, and prepare to respond more effectively to these ongoing cultural changes."
An Exhibition in a Time of Transformation
The timing of "MAMCO, from Memory" is particularly poignant as it coincides with the museum’s impending renovation. The renovation aims to address critical infrastructural needs, such as improved temperature and humidity control, which will enable the museum to showcase both modern and contemporary art. Bovier emphasized the dual goals of the project: enhancing the museum's ability to exhibit a broader range of works and improving the visitor experience. "We’re looking forward to welcoming audiences into a space that better supports both the art and the people who come to see it," he said.
During the four-year renovation period, MAMCO will continue to engage with the public through exhibitions held in various locations across Geneva and in collaboration with other Swiss museums. This initiative aims to keep the museum’s presence alive in the cultural landscape of Switzerland, even as its physical space undergoes transformation.
Looking Ahead
As MAMCO embarks on this period of renovation, "MAMCO, from Memory" serves as both a tribute to the museum’s past and a gesture towards its future. By allowing the public to play a central role in shaping this exhibition, MAMCO underscores its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. Visitors have until December 22, 2024, to experience this unique exhibition, which promises to be a landmark event in the museum’s history.
As Bovier optimistically noted, "This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for MAMCO."
MAMCO, from Memory
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 12:00-18:00
Saturday and Sunday 11:00-18:00
*Closed on Monday
Veneu: MAMCO MUSÉE D’ART MODERNE ET CONTEMPORAIN
(10, rue des vieux grenadiers, 1205 GENÈVE)
Admission: Free entry throughout the duration of the exhibition
Website: https://www.mamco.ch/en
Photo credit Annik Wetter
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