In the serene setting of Lens, Switzerland, a gallery stands as a beacon of cultural exchange, housing Europe’s largest collection of Aboriginal art. This remarkable institution is the brainchild of Bérengère Primat, a French-born, Swiss-based collector whose passion for Indigenous Australian art has transformed her into a pivotal figure in the art world.
Primat’s journey began two decades ago in a Paris gallery, where she encountered the mesmerizing works of Indigenous Australian artists. This initial encounter sparked a profound connection that has since evolved into a collection of nearly 2000 pieces, making it one of the world’s most significant private collections of contemporary Aboriginal art.
A Cultural Bridge in the Swiss Alps
Nestled beside an artificial lake in the Swiss Alps, the Fondation Opale is not just a gallery but a cultural bridge linking Australia’s First Nations artists with European audiences. The elegant, light-filled complex includes artist residencies, a library, and exhibition halls, all dedicated to showcasing Aboriginal art as a living and evolving contemporary practice.
Primat’s vision for the Fondation Opale is simple yet profound: to present Aboriginal art as a dynamic and contemporary form, deeply rooted in ancient culture and values. The gallery serves as a haven for Aboriginal artists, providing a platform for them to express themselves freely and engage in cross-cultural exchanges.
The Journey and the Vision
Guided by curator Arnaud Serval, Primat embarked on a journey to Australia, immersing herself in Aboriginal culture across Alice Springs, the Kimberley, and Arnhem Land. This deep engagement with the communities and their stories has informed her collection and curatorial approach.
Primat’s dedication to cultural philanthropy is perhaps unsurprising given her heritage. 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 prominent art collector. Her upbringing was steeped in art, science, and legacy, themes that continue to influence her work today.
Curating with Purpose
Georges Petitjean, a pioneer in Indigenous Australian art studies, has been a trusted advisor to Primat. Together, they have curated exhibitions that pair Aboriginal artists with those from different traditions, breaking down artificial boundaries and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
This year’s exhibition, “Beneath the Reflections of the World,” exemplifies this approach by placing the late Queensland artist Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori in conversation with American visionary Forrest Bess. According to Primat, such exchanges are crucial in challenging perceptions and expanding the appreciation of Aboriginal art.
Impact and Legacy
Primat’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Skye O’Meara, chief executive of the APY Art Centre Collective, praises Primat’s commitment to ethical collecting practices and her focus on living artists. O’Meara notes that Primat’s investment is making a significant and lasting impact on Indigenous artists and the broader art industry.
Primat’s influence extends beyond her collection. Her work has inspired global institutions and collectors, including celebrities like Steve Martin, to take Indigenous Australian art seriously. This growing interest is a testament to the cultural significance of Primat’s vision and the role of the Fondation Opale in elevating Aboriginal art on the world stage.
Despite her achievements, Primat remains modest about her role. Her primary concern is the reception of the works, particularly from those who understand the stories behind them. “I don’t want to say that I help them because it’s maybe a bit pretentious, but I can see a difference,” she says.
As she continues to champion Indigenous artists, Primat is always looking to the future, seeking guidance from the artists themselves to ensure her efforts align 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 glimpse into the transformative power of art and the enduring legacy of Bérengère Primat’s vision.
