The Columbia Alumni Association of Switzerland held its annual Art Basel gathering on June 17, 2026 — and this year’s edition proved to be a great success. A total of 72 alumni and affiliates registered for the event, making it one of our strongest turnouts in recent years.
We met in the entrance hall of the VOLTA Art Fair, next to the ticket booth, where we were welcomed by Eleanor from VOLTA Art Affairs. From there, the group moved together into the large exhibition hall on the lower level. We gathered inside one of the many art pavilions, this one dedicated to new and lesser‑known artists working in forms of native art inspired by Indigenous Australian traditions.
The artistic director Lee Cavaliere introduced the exhibition and the fair — a gesture that was especially appreciated, as we had initially been informed that he would not have time to join us. His presence made the introduction all the more meaningful. He guided us through the pavilion by “interviewing” several of the artists and gallerists on site, offering insights into their work, their backgrounds, and the curatorial approach of the fair.
After this engaging introduction, alumni explored the exhibition hall in small groups. The quality of the artworks on display was consistently high, and many participants remarked that it was a privilege to experience the fair with such context — and with the VIP passes generously provided to our association.
Following the visit, a large part of the group gathered at Bistro d’Europe, just around the corner. As a group, we occupied nearly half the restaurant. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere lively, with conversations continuing well into the evening.
It was, once again, a memorable event around Art Basel — combining art, community, and the opportunity to connect with fellow members of the Columbia network in Switzerland.
Warmest regards,
Philippe Waelle, President Basel Chapter
Corinna Grisostimi, Event Officer
Patrick Naef, Event Officer
In collaboration with SwissMBAs