Castaway Modernism

This book explores the impact of Nazi cultural policy on art collections, particularly highlighting the Kunstmuseum Basel and its acquisitions during this turbulent time. Castaway Modernism delves into the complexities of art's preservation and loss.

In Castaway Modernism, readers are taken on a journey through a pivotal era in the history of the Kunstmuseum Basel's collection. The narrative begins in 1937, when the Nazi regime's cultural policy labeled thousands of artworks as 'degenerate,' leading to their removal from German museums. This systematic purge was not only an act of cultural violence but also a calculated attempt to control artistic expression. As the Third Reich's Ministry of Propaganda recognized the potential for these artworks to be sold abroad, many pieces deemed 'internationally exploitable' found their way into the art market through various channels.

The book meticulously details how Georg Schmidt, the museum's director during this tumultuous period, succeeded in acquiring significant works, including Franz Marc's Animal Destinies, in 1939. This acquisition marked a moment of resilience against the backdrop of artistic repression. Through the contributions of esteemed experts, Castaway Modernism explores the historical contexts surrounding these events, shedding light on the complexities of the art market and institutional responses to the Nazi regime's actions.

Additionally, the catalogue examines the auction at Galerie Fischer in Lucerne and the implications of Schmidt's approach to acquisitions. By focusing on the fragmentation of Modernism into art that was either 'exploitable' or lost to history, the book reveals the intricate dynamics of cultural preservation and loss, offering a nuanced perspective on the legacy of this era in Swiss art history.