Last Thursday felt like the perfect start to Art Weekend in Zurich. With Art Basel about to begin, the city was already buzzing with collectors, artists, curators, and friends arriving from all over the world. There was a special energy in the air, the kind that only comes once a year when the art world gathers in Switzerland.
With General Manager Mandarin Oriental Savoy Dominik G. Reiner and German Artist Paul Schrader
My evening started at the Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich, where I attended an intimate reception for German artist Paul Schrader, whose works are currently on display throughout the hotel. I was particularly impressed by how naturally his pieces fit into the elegant surroundings of the Savoy.
His work has a quiet confidence that immediately draws you in without demanding attention. Just as enjoyable as the exhibition was meeting Paul himself, warm, approachable, and refreshingly down-to-earth.
With Christoph Niemann at Tao’s
Later, I joined Galerie Gmurzynska for a dinner at Tao’s celebrating the opening of Christoph Niemann’s exhibition. Niemann is one of those rare artists whose work manages to be clever, playful, and sophisticated at the same time. His ability to transform everyday ideas into visual stories has earned him international recognition, and the exhibition is a wonderful reflection of that creativity.
What made the evening truly special, however, were the people. The conversations flowed effortlessly, old friendships were renewed, new connections were made, and there was a shared excitement for the week ahead.
Tao’s Zurich
A wonderful evening, a beautiful reminder of why Zurich becomes such a captivating place every June, and the perfect beginning to what promises to be an inspiring Art Basel week.
LoL, Sandra
With wonderful Galerist Isabelle Bscher of Galerie Gmurzynska
Friends for a long time: Marco Diemer
Handbag designer Peter Nitz with whom I hosted an event for Patek Philippe a few years ago.
Photos: Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Savoy and © Sandra Bauknecht
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With the Orsini team from left to right: Antonio Guida, Dario Moresco, and Gianmarco D’Alonzo.
When food becomes art …
With General Manager Dominik G. Reiner and his wife Angela.
With Marco-Antonio Diemer, Director of Marketing and Commercial Strategy Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich
With the «King of Chocolate» Ernst Tanner
With my Valentino ladies, Shang Wei Huang and Gianfranca Addis. 
Until November 2024, the Valentino suite will be located on the first floor of the hotel.
