DASEIN. What does it mean to simply “be”? A word, a concept, now an exhibition.
Kunstmuseum Appenzell. Here, Jonathan Bragdon’s drawings found their place. The landscapes of Appenzell—drawn with an intensity that speaks of time spent, of observation, of connection. Think “field drawings.” Not just what is seen, but what is felt.
Bragdon. An American in Amsterdam, yet somehow, his art feels like it belongs everywhere and nowhere at once. How does he do that? Appenzell’s rural charm—the “close to nature” vibe—it seeps into his work. You can feel it. And inside the museum walls, it all clicks. The views outside? They’re the same mountains he drawed. Hohe Kasten, Alpstein, Säntis. It’s like the landscape and the art are in on some quiet secret together.
At first, the graphics in the first room were loud. Bold, almost shouting. But later? They softened. Gave the art room to breathe. The catalogues and signage? Thoughtful, like breadcrumbs left for us to follow. A map, maybe. Nudging us to wander through ideas—nature, philosophy, just... being.
And it makes sense. Because Dasein isn’t just about existence, it’s about being present. Engaged. Aware. In the moment. And that’s what Bragdon captures in his work. The feeling of being truly alive and connected to the world around us, even in a bustling city or quiet museum.
