Moderna Musset – Stockholm, Sweden

I have to say this museum never really impressed me. Compared with other European modern arts museums (not to mention the US), the Moderna Musset is not in the top league. However, if you are interested in modern Swedish art, this is the place to visit. And, the building has a cool and spacey look and hosts a lovely restaurant and café with one of the best views of Stockholm.

Outside: The Moderna Museet building was designed by the Spanish architect Rafael Moneo and was inaugurated in 1998. Due to problems with the indoor climate, the building was closed in January 2002. The renovation was conducted by Marge Architects, a young Swedish architectural practice. The building reopened in 2004. While you are still outside, you can admire some interesting modern sculptures. In the Museum garden, you should not miss Picasso’s “Déjeuner sur l’Herbe” (1962), the sculptural version of Picasso’s painting inspired by the original Manet painting “Déjeuner sur l’Herbe” (1865).

Inside: The art collection spans from 1900 to the present day, including works by Marcel Duchamp, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Henri Matisse and Robert Rauschenberg, as well as new acquisitions by contemporary artists. The contemporary section changes frequently. If you are interested in Swedish and Nordic art, the Museum holds some 3,700 sculptures, paintings, and installations by artists such as Vera Nilsson and Siri Derkert. This collection provides a picture of developments in Swedish art from 1900 to today. There is also a photographic collection comprisings works from the 1840s onwards, as well as contemporary films and videos, in the Video Corridor. (Last visited 06/2007)