In the serene setting of Lens, Switzerland, a gallery housing Europe’s largest collection of Aboriginal art is quietly revolutionizing the continent’s contemporary art scene. Nestled beside a picturesque artificial lake in the Swiss Alps, the Fondation Opale stands as a testament to the vision of Bérengère Primat, a French-born, Swiss-based collector whose passion transcends mere interest.
Primat’s journey into the world of Aboriginal art began two decades ago in a Paris gallery, where she encountered works that resonated with her on a profound level. “It was never a hobby,” she explains. “It is an obsession.” This obsession has grown into one of the world’s most significant private collections of contemporary Aboriginal art, now boasting around 2,000 pieces.
A Cultural Bridge
Located just a few hours from Geneva, the Fondation Opale serves as a cultural bridge between Australia’s First Nations artists and European audiences. The gallery, an elegant and light-filled complex, has expanded to include artist residencies, a library, and exhibition halls, creating a space where Aboriginal art is celebrated as a living and evolving contemporary practice.
Primat’s commitment to this art form is deeply personal. Guided by Arnaud Serval, a curator with extensive experience in Indigenous communities, she traveled across Australia, immersing herself in the culture and stories of the artists. “I remember walking into that space and being instantly captivated,” she recalls. “The works radiated a depth and energy that felt almost tangible.”
From Family Legacy to Cultural Philanthropy
Bérengère Primat’s roots are intertwined with one of Europe’s most influential industrial families. She is the great-granddaughter of Marcel Schlumberger, co-founder of the global oil services firm Schlumberger, and the grandniece of Dominique de Ménil, a renowned art collector. Despite this illustrious background, Primat’s focus remains on the artists and their stories rather than personal accolades.
Her collection’s purpose became clearer during a pivotal trip to the APY Lands in South Australia. “We did five communities there,” she recounts, “and at the end, one of the artists told me, ‘There’s nowhere we can show our art in Europe which is not an ethnographic museum.’” This comment inspired her to ensure that Aboriginal art is presented as a contemporary practice, not just an ethnographic curiosity.
Building a Legacy
Primat’s dedication is evident in the Fondation Opale’s exhibitions, which often pair Aboriginal artists with those from different traditions. The current exhibition, “Beneath the Reflections of the World,” features the late Queensland artist Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori alongside American painter Forrest Bess. “They break down artificial boundaries,” Primat asserts, emphasizing the importance of cross-cultural dialogue.
Georges Petitjean, a pioneer in Indigenous Australian art studies, serves as the curator of Fondation Opale. Having first met Primat nearly two decades ago, Petitjean has been instrumental in guiding the collection’s growth and institutional credibility. “He understands this art and culture,” Primat says, highlighting the importance of having a knowledgeable partner in her endeavors.
Impact and Future Prospects
Skye O’Meara, chief executive of the APY Art Centre Collective, acknowledges Primat’s significant impact on Indigenous artists and the industry. “She committed to building her collection in a way that prioritised artists’ care, support, and best remuneration,” O’Meara notes. Primat’s approach contrasts with the more conservative tendencies of many galleries and museums, as she champions the careers of living artists.
Primat’s influence is already being felt, with more global institutions and collectors recognizing the value of Indigenous Australian art. “I’m really happy,” she says of the growing interest. “It means that more and more people are interested.”
As the Fondation Opale continues to elevate Indigenous artists on the world stage, Primat remains focused on the future. “I’m always looking to the next step,” she reflects. “Am I doing the right thing? Is it really what is needed?” Her commitment to listening to the artists themselves ensures that her path remains aligned with their needs and aspirations.
“Beneath the Reflections of the World,” featuring Forrest Bess and Sally Gabori, is on display at Fondation Opale until November 16, offering a unique opportunity to experience this groundbreaking cultural exchange.
