Exploring Marlene McCarty at Kunsthaus Baselland in Basel
Visitors stepping into the contemporary spaces of Kunsthaus Baselland are greeted by an immersive encounter with the work of New York-based, Basel-connected artist Marlene McCarty. Known for using humble, direct tools like graphite pencils and ballpoint pens, McCarty investigates complex social questions through sprawling series of large-format drawings. Her exhibition draws viewers into layered examinations of contemporary life, human behavior, and societal structures.
What to Expect from the Exhibition
The presentation extends far beyond traditional drawing displays. Created in collaboration with the Merian Gardens team, a specially constructed plant kingdom occupies the institution, bringing floral motifs from McCarty's artworks directly into a physical research-style environment. This botanical display highlights plants historically utilized as tools for female emancipation or as defensive agents, echoing themes found throughout the artist's multifaceted practice.
The exhibition also confronts darker, complex narratives, including a deep-seated exploration of an American teenager's tragic act of rebellion that has shadowed McCarty's work since the mid-1990s. Through these varied elements—ranging from intimate pencil strokes on paper to wall-sized compositions and living greenery—the presentation bridges historical inquiry with urgent contemporary discussions on gender, power, and nature.
Plan your next outing and discover more local highlights through Musemap (musemap.art). You can easily browse upcoming exhibitions or search the complete directory of Basel museums to find more cultural destinations across the city.
