Hauser & Wirth is a contemporary and modern art gallery originally founded in Zurich in 1992. Established by Iwan Wirth, Manuela Wirth and Ursula Hauser, it has expanded over the years to become the footing of visionary artistic projects across the globe – including right here in Somerset.
A family-run business with an expansive framework, Hauser & Wirth is a name that rolls off the tongue of all those in the know and attracts admirers from far and wide. Having established a far-reaching reputation for its commitment to artists and artistic vision, it represents over 80 artists and estates and has galleries all over the world. Just some of its impressive collection of outposts include Hong Kong, London, New York, Los Angeles, St. Moritz, Monaco and the bucolic county of Somerset.
Once a dilapidated array of tumble-down farmhouses, Hauser & Wirth’s gallery at Durslade Farm in Somerset was reinvented as part of an ambitious restoration project – a global initiative restoring historic buildings to create engaging art spaces. Now a world-class art centre, Hauser & Wirth Somerset has been carefully and sympathetically restored and refined to complement its beautiful surrounding landscapes and “connect international art with local culture through architecture”.
As with all of its spaces, Hauser & Wirth’s Somerset gallery encourages interaction with art, education, conservation and sustainability. As well as regular exhibitions and events, it also hosts shows that are accompanied by informative workshops and seminars to fuel thought, inspire creativity and inflame a passion for contemporary art, nature and architecture. Working closely with local charities, schools and universities and running multi-generational programmes, the gallery encourages everyone to get involved.
If you want to discover Hauser & Wirth Somerset for yourself, then you can enjoy the gallery’s regular opening hours throughout the week: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. Entrance to the gallery and garden is free, but small donations are requested to be made to one of the gallery’s chosen local charities. Upon arrival, you can look forward to a few hours exploring at your own pace, and you can also pre-book group tours, talks and tailored events.
As well as the modern and contemporary exhibitions, another of the main focuses of the site revolves around food. Bringing together Iwan and Manuela Wirth’s love for fine art and fine food, a number of bars, restaurants and a farm shop are open onsite, including the Roth Bar & Grill. A great place to sit back, socialise and, of course, tuck into delicious dishes crafted with seasonal and locally-sourced produce, Roth Bar & Grill is worth a visit in its own right.
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Hauser & Wirth, Durslade Farm, Dropping Lane, Bruton BA10 0NL | 01749 814 060 | www.hauserwirth.com
