The tender indifference of the world. The Basel artists' group Kreis 48

Curated by Katharina Dunst and Claudia Pantellini

In contrast to the clearly politically motivated Circle 33, Circle 48 was not interested in a defined thematic or artistic program. Max Kämpf, Karl Glatt and Gustav Stettler – to name just a few of the members – were united by an interest in the depiction of people and the desire to exhibit their work in trendy art spaces. Most of the 48er artists remain committed to figurative or representational art throughout their entire career. A circumstance that made them appear reactionary alongside the avant-garde developments in the art scene of the second half of the 20th century.

On the one hand, the newly published monograph explores the reasons why artists came together to form collectives. On the other hand, the individual work and creations of individual members of the circle are illuminated and honored.

The exhibition at Kunst Raum Riehen will show positions from the art holdings of the municipality, private collections and the collection of the Kunstkredit Basel-Stadt. The focus is on reflecting human existence in its multi-layered manifestations.

The monograph Die Basler Künstlergruppe Kreis 48 is published by Christoph Merian Verlag.