Guide to Visiting Musée de l’Elysée and Mudac in Lausanne, Switzerland
Date: 24/07/2024
Introduction
Lausanne, Switzerland, is a city that stands as a beacon of cultural and artistic heritage, and two of its most esteemed institutions, Photo Elysée and Mudac, epitomize this rich tradition. Nestled within the innovative Plateforme 10 arts district, these museums offer an unparalleled exploration of photography and contemporary design. Photo Elysée, originally known as Musée de l’Elysée, has been a cornerstone for photography enthusiasts since its founding in 1985 by Charles-Henri Favrod. It houses an impressive collection of over 1,200,000 phototypes, making it a vital resource for researchers and historians alike (Photo Elysée). Mudac, or the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts, complements this with its avant-garde exhibitions that challenge and inspire visitors by exploring the intersections of design, art, and everyday life (Lausanne Tourisme).
As these two institutions transitioned to their new home in Plateforme 10, designed by Portuguese architects Aires Mateus, they have continued to expand their reach and impact. The move not only provided them with modern facilities and expanded exhibition spaces but also positioned Lausanne as a global cultural hub (Photo Elysée). This guide will delve into the history, significance, visitor information, travel tips, and nearby attractions, offering a comprehensive overview for anyone planning to visit these cultural gems.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Significance of Photo Elysée
- History and Significance of Mudac
- Visitor Information
- Nearby Attractions
- Cultural Impact and Visitor Experience
- Notable Events and Programs
- Conclusion
- FAQ
History and Significance of Photo Elysée
Origins and Evolution
Founded in 1985 by Charles-Henri Favrod, Photo Elysée, originally known as Musée de l’Elysée, is dedicated to the art and history of photography. Initially housed in an 18th-century mansion in the Little Ouchy area of Lausanne, the museum’s collection began with the canton of Vaud’s Collection of Prints. It quickly became a premier institution for photography, amassing over 1,200,000 phototypes, including works by Sabine Weiss, Jan Groover, René Burri, and Charlie Chaplin (Photo Elysée).
Transition to Plateforme 10
In October 2020, Photo Elysée closed its doors to prepare for a significant transition to a new building in the Plateforme 10 arts district. Designed by Portuguese architects Aires Mateus, the new building opened in June 2022, offering 1,400 square meters of flexible and modular exhibition space, state-of-the-art storage, and technical services (Photo Elysée).
Significance
Photo Elysée is a vital resource for researchers, historians, and photography enthusiasts, showcasing the evolution of photography from 19th-century daguerreotypes to contemporary digital prints. The museum’s collection includes works by Adolphe Braun, Gabriel Lippmann, Mario Giacomelli, and Lucia Moholy (Wikipedia).
History and Significance of Mudac
Origins and Evolution
Mudac, the Museum of Contemporary Design and Applied Arts, was initially located in an old townhouse near Lausanne’s cathedral. Known for its innovative and creatively curated exhibitions, Mudac explored the intersections between design, art, and everyday life, making it a unique institution in Lausanne (Newly Swissed).
Transition to Plateforme 10
In 2022, Mudac moved to the Plateforme 10 arts district, sharing a new building with Photo Elysée. The expanded exhibition space and modern facilities have allowed Mudac to continue its tradition of innovative curatorship while reaching a broader audience (Lausanne Tourisme).
Visitor Information
Photo Elysée Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Tickets: Adults CHF 12, Students and Seniors CHF 8, Children under 16 free
- Contact: +41 21 316 99 11
- Website: Photo Elysée
Mudac Lausanne Tickets and Hours
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Tickets: Adults CHF 12, Students and Seniors CHF 8, Children under 16 free
- Contact: +41 21 316 99 33
- Website: Mudac
Travel Tips
- Accessibility: Both museums are wheelchair accessible.
- Facilities: On-site café and museum shop available.
- Guided Tours: Available upon request. Check respective websites for more details.
Nearby Attractions
- Lausanne Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, just a short walk from Plateforme 10.
- Ouchy Promenade: A beautiful lakeside area perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Olympic Museum: Learn about the history of the Olympic Games.
Cultural Impact and Visitor Experience
The establishment of Plateforme 10 has significantly impacted Lausanne’s cultural scene, creating a vibrant hub that attracts visitors globally. Its central location and modern facilities make it an ideal destination for art and photography enthusiasts. Visitors can explore diverse exhibitions, dynamic presentations, and enjoy amenities like the museum shop and Café Lumen (Photo Elysée).
Notable Events and Programs
- Photo Elysée: Hosts the annual Nuit des Images event and awards the Prix Elysée, a prestigious photography prize (Wikipedia).
- Mudac: Offers innovative exhibitions and interactive programs, making it popular for visitors of all ages (Newly Swissed).
Conclusion
The history and significance of Photo Elysée and Mudac are deeply intertwined with Lausanne’s cultural development. The transition to Plateforme 10 marks a new chapter, providing modern facilities and expanded exhibition spaces. This move enhances the visitor experience and solidifies Lausanne’s reputation as a leading center for the arts. Plan your visit to Plateforme 10 for a rich and diverse cultural experience, with dynamic exhibitions and innovative programs celebrating photography and contemporary design.
FAQ
Q: What are the opening hours of Photo Elysée? A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays).
Q: How to buy tickets for Mudac? A: Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the Mudac website. Prices are Adults CHF 12, Students and Seniors CHF 8, and Children under 16 free.
Q: Are guided tours available? A: Yes, guided tours are available upon request. Check the respective websites for more details.
Stay up to date with the latest events and programs by following Photo Elysée and Mudac on social media and visiting their official websites.
