The Swiss lawyer and collector Gitti Hug is based in nearby Zurich and is the president of the friends of the Kunsthaus Zürich. As a lawyer, she specialises in intellectual property law, including copyright and trademark laws, with a special focus on the international art market. She began collecting art in the mid-1990s and is a fan of Abstract Expressionist artists such as Mark Rothko and Philip Guston. When in Basel, Hug enjoys spending time at the Fondation Beyeler and the Kunsthalle Basel—and says you should top off a visit to the latter with a typical Swiss meal of veal.
The Art Newspaper: What was the first work you ever bought?
Gitti Hug: A small work by Christopher Wool called Bad Dog, measuring 60cm by 30cm, which I purchased at auction in 1994 for $4,500. Looking back, it was a wonderful way to start a collection.
What was the last work you bought?
The most recent work I acquired is a drawing by Philip Guston. I am absolutely delighted with it. I fell in love with Guston’s work several years ago, but seeing the exhibition at the Museé Picasso in Paris truly sealed it for me.
Hug says she was fascinated by the reactions to Mark Rothko’s No. 5 (Reds) at Berlin’s Neue Nationalgalerie © Neue Nationalgalerie—Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz/Jörg P. Anders
How quickly do you decide to buy a work of art?
Generally, I decide quite quickly; instinct plays an important role. That said, when the price level becomes more significant, I always do my homework and conduct thorough due diligence before making a decision.
What do you regret not buying when you had the chance?
Around 30 years ago, I encountered a beautiful Mark Rothko at a Christie’s auction in Zurich. At that time, I thought it was too expensive. Needless to say, I have regretted that decision ever since.
If you could have any work from any museum, what would it be?
Mark Rothko’s No. 5 (Reds) (1961) in Berlin’s Neue Nationalgalerie. What fascinated me most was not only the painting itself but also the powerful emotional reactions it provoked in viewers standing before it. It is an extraordinarily powerful red painting.
When the price level becomes more significant, I always do my homework before making a decision
Where do you like to eat and drink while you’re in Basel?
I love Volkshaus Basel because there is a wonderful energy, something is always happening and it happens to be run by friends of mine. It feels like a home away from home during Art Basel.
Do you have any parties lined up?
I really enjoy the evening programme at the Fondation Beyeler. Every night offers a different atmosphere.
What is your least favourite thing about art fairs?
Discovering that the work you fell in love with was already sold before the first day of the fair.
Gitti Hug advises first-timers to visit the Kunsthalle Basel before tucking into Zürcher Geschnetzeltes next door at Restaurant Kunsthalle Photo: Moritz Schermbach/Kunsthalle Basel
Where do you go in Basel to get away from it all?
Back to Zurich.
What tip would you give to someone visiting Basel for the first time?
The Kunsthalle Basel is always worth a visit. Afterwards, I recommend enjoying a traditional Zürcher Geschnetzeltes [strips of veal in a cream sauce] at Restaurant Kunsthalle next door. It is a perfect combination of art and Swiss culinary tradition.