Discover Germany, Switzerland & Austria

New year, new art

- TEXT & PHOTO: MATT ANTONIAK

A new year, and a new you. Going to more galleries should be everyone’s new year’s resolution, and we’re here to help you find the best. In this round-up of the finest exhibition­s from Berlin, Zurich and Vienna, there is a bit of something for everyone.

We start in Germany, with Original Bauhaus at Berlinisch­e Galerie. The exhibition marks 100 years since the experiment­al art school’s founding, and marks its huge influence on art and design up to the present day. For a school that only existed for 14 years, the reach of the Bauhaus is phenomenal, with much of its architectu­re and designs being reproduced and replicated today. Original Bauhaus examines the history of its most famous designs, and debunks some of the myths surroundin­g the now legendary school.

If looking to the past isn’t your thing, then perhaps It’s Urgent - Part III at

Luma Westbau, Zurich is more for you. Curated by art-world mega-don Hans Ulrich Obrist, this ever-changing show tackles the more pressing issues facing the world today. Bothered by the current global situation, Obrist has invited 70+ artists to submit posters that offer instructio­ns and left-field ideas on how to change the world. Whilst some will have you raising a quizzical eyebrow, others will leave you nodding in agreement, and in these times, don’t we need the radical ideas of artists more than ever?

Lastly, gracing the halls of Secession, Vienna, is Iranian painter Tala Madani. One of the most exciting living painters, Madani is known for her humorous depictions of society. And they aren’t just humorous in a knowing-nod kind of way; they are laugh-out-loud funny. The risqué title of this show, Sh*t Moms, gives a decent insight into the subject matter, but Madani’s entertaini­ng depiction of domestic life needs to be seen to be truly enjoyed.

Original Bauhaus runs until 27 January 2020, It’s Urgent - Part III runs until 26 January 2020, and Sh*t Moms runs until 9 February 2020, at Secession, Vienna.

New Year’s Concert, Vienna (1 January)

New Year’s Day means it’s time for the undisputed highlight of the famous Wiener Philharmon­iker. Works by Strauß take centre stage during this concert, which is broadcaste­d live in 90 different countries and one of the most popular ones in all of Austria. Tickets are only available through a lottery, but even if you don’t get one, it’s wonderful to watch the live broadcast.

New Year’s Marathon, Berlin (1 January)

New Year’s resolution­s typically involve some form of exercise, so Berlin’s 4k New Year’s Marathon might well be the right way to kickstart your new habit. Each year, around 3,500 people take part and run across Berlin. There are no races or competitio­ns, this marathon is all about participat­ing. You don’t have to register: instead, simply show up on the day and you’re good to go.

TrendSet Munich 5 – 7 January)

Interiors, inspiratio­n and lifestyle: The TrendSet fair in Munich has it all. On an impressive 100,000 square metres, around 2,500 brands and collection­s will be on display. Each year, approximat­ely 35,000 buyers, top decision-makers and design enthusiast­s explore the upcoming trends and get a headstart on the season. TrendSet takes place twice a year, and is open to the public, as well.

Neue ArT fair, Dresden (10 – 12 January)

It’s all about arts at this fair. From paintings and graphics to sculptures, photos, designs and installati­ons, there is the right kind of art for everyone to enjoy. The fair also shows how much heart and soul goes into the creative process of making art, in whatever shape or form it takes. Whether you are an art profession­al or art lover, you should certainly head to Dresden and check it out.

Husky camp and race, Pillersee Tal (11 – 26 January)

Welcome to the husky camp. This is a truly special event, and not just if you love dogs. Here, visitors can learn how to care for these stunning canines. During the show, beautiful huskies from all over the globe are introduced to the audience. It’s an unforgetta­ble moment to see them race across the beautiful snowy Austrian landscape.

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 ??  ?? Erich Consemülle­r, dress material: Elisabeth Beyer-Volger, Bauhaus-Archiv Berlin. Photo: © Dr. Stephan Consemülle­r
Erich Consemülle­r, dress material: Elisabeth Beyer-Volger, Bauhaus-Archiv Berlin. Photo: © Dr. Stephan Consemülle­r
 ??  ?? Tala Madani, Shit Moms, installati­on view, Secession 2019. Photo: © Peter Mochi
Tala Madani, Shit Moms, installati­on view, Secession 2019. Photo: © Peter Mochi

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