We celebrate 75 years of SIK-ISEA

In 2026, we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Swiss Institute for Art Research and, with it, the impressive history of an institute that has become an integral part of the national art scene. Highlights so far have included the anniversary celebrations in June and an open day offering insights into the Institute’s projects, collections and services.

Impressions 75 years of SIK-ISEA, photo: Michael Lio

Impressions 75 years of SIK-ISEA, photo: SIK-ISEA, Zurich

Impressions 75 years of SIK-ISEA, photo: Michael Lio

At the anniversary celebrations, Federal President Guy Parmelin, Zurich Cantonal President Carmen Walker Späh, National Councillor Regine Sauter and Zurich’s Mayor Raphael Golta paid tribute to the Institute’s work. We are delighted that we can share the Federal President’s words with you here in the form of a video message:

75 years of SIK-ISEA – message from the President of the Swiss Confederation Guy Parmelin

To mark the anniversary, the young Zurich-based director Laura Rindlisbacher has made a short film about SIK-ISEA. It looks back at the period from the institute’s early years to the present day – from the perspective of people who have worked there – and reflects their personal impressions and experiences:

75 years of SIK-ISEA – Art, Stories

Agenda

26 November 2026, 6 pm: Director Roger Fayet will guide a tour of SIK-ISEA at Villa Bleuler, followed by an aperitif

Perhaps you are interested in the anniversary programme for Friends of SIK-ISEA but have not yet joined the association. The anniversary edition of our Annual Report also offers an insight into this special anniversary year. Here are further details about membership as well as an application form.

We look forward to enjoying a rich and inspiring anniversary year with you in 2026.

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We celebrate 75 years of SIK-ISEA

Agenda