Lecture Series «Ein Haus...»: «A house from the past that no longer exists»: Pont. Bridges from history

In autumn 2025, the lectures in the series «Ein Haus...» will focus on radical renovation projects. A historic building, colloquially referred to as a house «from the past», is transformed so radically that it no longer exists afterwards – but has nevertheless left a lasting impression. These metamorphoses range from measured demolition to replacement buildings that harmonise with the old structure, to additions that allude to what was there before in terms of form, material or meaning. Ultimately, it is about how we deal with history and the courage to inscribe ourselves architecturally in the course of time.

Jan Hostettler's works repeatedly transform parts of historical buildings, placing them in a new context and ultimately often being the only thing that remains of the buildings – such as a bridge pier in the Emme river in the work «Pont». His works intervene in planning and construction processes in order to critically and humorously undermine and question them. He highlights what these interventions look like, what they entail and what scope for action and thought they open up. Jan Hostettler lives and works in Basel. His works have been exhibited at the Bundeskunsthalle Bonn, the Kunstmuseum Olten, the Schönthal Monastery and the Schirn in Frankfurt, among others.

«Ein Haus…» is a series of lectures in which buildings are presented in detail. This reveals the different perspectives of architects, clients, artists, users and others who influence the appearance and fate of the buildings. The focus of the presentations varies, ranging from urban planning premises to construction challenges, from historical references to social ambitions.

With

Jan Hostettler (Artist)

Info

Lecture in German
Bar service from 6:00 p.m. and after the lecture.

Duration

90 minutes, no break

Prices

Admission free.

Links

→ fhnw.ch
→ janhostettler.ch