Fondation Beyeler Names First Botanical Curator in Historic Move Backed by Chanel Culture Fund
Ohana Magazine – The Fondation Beyeler, located in Riehen near Basel, has taken a significant step in redefining its cultural mission. Known for its prestigious modern and contemporary art collection, the museum is now embracing nature in a new way. It has appointed Rahel Kesselring as its first-ever botanical curator, a role believed to be the first at any major art institution. This position is funded by the Chanel Culture Fund, showing a strong commitment to linking culture with ecological care.
Uniting Art and the Natural World
The museum has always used its landscape as part of its art experience. Renzo Piano designed the building to blend with the surrounding fields, ponds, and trees. Over the years, several artists have created site-specific works here. For example, Christo wrapped 178 trees in fabric in 1998. Later, Olafur Eliasson opened a section of the building to connect an outdoor pond with an indoor gallery. Now, Kesselring’s job is to deepen this relationship by preserving plants and creating nature-focused public programs. She says plants shape our culture and daily lives, reminding us that our bond with nature is ancient and essential.
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A Museum Where Landscape Becomes a Gallery
The Fondation Beyeler is admired not only for its art, but also for its peaceful setting. The architecture allows sunlight to flow into the galleries and offers constant views of the gardens. This design supports the museum’s belief that nature is not simply decoration. Instead, it is a living partner in the cultural experience. With a botanical curator, the gardens will receive the same creative care as the artworks inside. Visitors will see the outdoor spaces as part of the museum, not separate from it.
Chanel’s Role in Cultural Innovation
Chanel’s involvement signals a new kind of cultural partnership. According to Yana Peel, head of arts and culture for the brand, the goal is long-term impact. Chanel does not wish to sponsor quick events or flashy celebrations. Instead, it supports programs that help institutions grow in meaningful ways. The Chanel Culture Fund has invested in global cultural projects, including a major art library project in Shanghai and a residency for women artists in Brazil. The support for this botanical role reflects a wider mission: using creativity to inspire awareness and positive change, not simply to promote luxury.
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A Model for Future Museums
Kesselring’s appointment sets a powerful example for the art world. Museums are increasingly aware of environmental issues, and many are searching for new ways to respond. By adding ecological stewardship to its core mission, the Fondation Beyeler shows that preserving nature can be as important as protecting art. This role encourages other cultural institutions to rethink their responsibilities. Caring for a garden is not only a practical task it is a statement about the future of humanity and creativity.
A New Way to Experience Culture and Nature Together
For visitors, this change offers a fresh perspective. The museum hopes people will explore its gardens with curiosity and reflection. Kesselring wants to help guests see plants not just as scenery, but as living partners in culture and memory. In a world facing rapid environmental change, her work invites us to slow down and reconnect. It reminds us that inspiration can come from the quiet presence of trees, water, and light, just as much as from paintings and sculptures.
