Photo: Christian Aschman.
Photo: Mudam Publics
Photo: Mudam Publics
Modern art in stunning surroundings TEXT: LIDIJA LIEGIS
The MUDAM is Luxembourg’s only museum of modern art. “The artwork helps us understand today’s world,” says general director Enrico Lunghi. “It gives us a vision of human capacity and how we currently live.” The stunning building, designed by SinoAmerican architect Ieoh Ming Pei, is set in the remains of Fort Thüngen. Its beautiful grounds are in the midst of Dräi Eechelen park, offering superb views of Luxembourg’s old town. MUDAM’s collection reflects current trends by displaying works from emerging artists. Key expos this year include Vox Populi by Fiona Tan. This is a series of works consisting of hundreds of photographs from family albums of people living in different countries. Tan examines the relationship between personal and joint history, the presence of the past, as well as issues of memory and 36 | Issue 29 | May 2016
identity. Tan’s work can be viewed until 28 August 2016. Lunghi also highlights an installation by American artist Sarah Oppenheimer. “Oppenheimer created this installation especially for MUDAM,” he says. Her work changes the viewer’s perception of the museum, allowing visitors to see the building from new perspectives. This year, MUDAM will celebrate its ten-year anniversary on 2 and 3 July. The museum will stay open from 11am on Saturday to 6pm on Sunday, and there will be a special programme to celebrate the occasion. MUDAM offers something for everyone. With Mudamini, a free membership scheme catering for three to 12-yearolds, it offers storytelling illustrated by art works on show for younger children and guided tours for children aged six and up. Art Freak is a scheme for 13 to
21-year-olds, providing workshops and the chance to discover exhibitions and meet artists. For the museum to remain accessible to everyone is key, insists Lunghi. The most challenging aspect of his work, says the director, is “making decisions for expos which will take place in three years’ time: we are always working well ahead of schedule and have to make a decision today”. The downside, he says, is that he subsequently only sees the results of his work three years later. In terms of art, he has no preferences for particular styles or eras. “I find art beautiful, whether it’s old paintings or contemporary works; I have as much pleasure and interest in both.” Please consult the website for opening times, group visits and tour schedules. www.mudam.lu