Accumulation – On Collecting, Growth and Excess
First Sequence

The consequences of excessive growth are becoming ever more visible – and awareness of it is constantly increasing. Yet progress, prosperity and social status continue to be equated with the accumulation of material goods. Accumulation invites visitors to engage with the challenges of and alternatives to excess.

Over-consumption intensifies the climate crisis, deepens social inequalities and stabilises (neo-)colonial power relations. But what is the way out? What would the transition from a growth-oriented to a common-good-oriented society look like? The artists in this exhibition respond in different ways to this challenge: some address the issues directly, while others develop methodologies and strategies to counteract the logic of material accumulation.

Museums, too, are shaped by the logic of growth, as they strive to preserve relevant artistic positions for generations. This is shown in the constant expansion of collections. Should this practice of accumulation by museums be regarded critically? Are there alternative approaches to collecting that should be considered?

The exhibited works with their differing perspectives encourage reflection on the challenges of constant growth and invite discussions about visions for a society centred around the common good, environmental responsibility, and social justice.

New Works in the Exhibition

Starting April 2nd, the first sequence of Accumulation will be enriched with additional works: A new production by Cian Dayrit will complement the artist's existing work displayed on the first floor. The project 'The Currency' by Gregor Kasper, Elom 20ce, and Musquiqui Chihying, also located on the first floor, will be supplemented with new works titled «The Rings I – III» including photographs, finger rings, a bracelet, and a documentary video about the working conditions in Agbogbloshie.

The work Homes from Homes II by Art & Language consists of three groups of works – previously, two of them were displayed on the ground floor. Starting April 5th, the third group will be shown: a combination of works by Art & Language and pieces from the museum's collection.

With works by Cian Dayrit, Nils Amadeus Lange, Jumana Manna, Reto Pulfer, Selma Selman, Stirnimann-Stojanovic, Sung Tieu, Elom 20ce, Musquiqui Chihying and Gregor Kasper

From the Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst collection: Art & Language, Maja Bajevic, Thomas Bayrle, Maria Eichhorn, Rachel Harrison, Tobias Kaspar, Liz Magor, Tabor Robak and Andy Warhol

Screening Times: In the black box on the first floor, two video works are on display

Film von Jumana Manna, Wild Relatives (2018): 63:55 Min.
Video-Performance von Selma Selman, Motherboards (2023): 08:32 Min.

Following Wild Relatives, Motherboards will be shown twice in succession.

• 11:20
• 12:45
• 14:10
• 15:35
• 16:50
• 18:15 (Thursday only)