Markus Raetz (Bern 1941–2020) was one of the best-known figures in contemporary Swiss art, and his work spanning more than five decades is unmistakable. While his work always revolved around the theme of visual perception and how to represent it, his early work in the 1960s bore an affinity to Pop Art before he moved closer to conceptual art by the end of the decade.

The aim of this project conducted by the Swiss Institute for Art Research (SIK-ISEA) is to compile a printed catalogue raisonné of all sculptures, objects and installations by Markus Raetz, accompanied by a detailed research apparatus. Art historians will analyse individual works and sets of work, explaining their astonishingly wide range of techniques, methods and iconographic aspects and examining them in the context of both Raetz’s œuvre and contemporary art. Estimates suggest that there are about 1800 pieces of works. In addition to the printed version of the catalogue raisonné, the online version will offer complex research functions and shows exemplary installations in motion.

Credits: Markus Raetz, «Köpfe», Ramatuelle, Sept. 1982 / Bern, 1993, 26 eucalyptus leaves, pins, 45 x 175 cm, installation plan (1:1), private collection.
© 2021, ProLitteris, photo: SIK-ISEA, Zurich, Philipp Hitz