Founded in 2003 Galerie Alex Schlesinger is a haven for contemporary art lovers. It’s located on Tödistrasse in Zurich’s Enge quarter. This isn’t just any gallery. It’s a vibrant space showcasing the works of over 20 artists. Many are from Switzerland and abroad. The gallery focuses on contemporary painting. The works often explore the tension between abstraction and figuration. Urban life and architecture are recurring themes.
Galerie Alex Schlesinger isn’t just about displaying art. It’s a place where stories unfold. The gallery’s founder Alex Schlesinger has a fascinating background. Before becoming a gallerist he was a French teacher. He also managed a cultural association. In 2000 he undertook further training in cultural management. This led to the creation of his gallery in 2003. He initially located the gallery near Spyriplatz on Zurichberg. After four years however he moved to its current location on Tödistrasse. He found the space ideal with its three large walls. He appreciates the foot traffic although less than on Paradeplatz. He prefers a less stressful environment allowing more time for contemplation.
Alex Schlesinger’s artistic journey began at an art fair in Cologne. There he discovered the work of Raphaël Renaud. He signed Renaud and two other artists soon after. One was Tobias Weber and the other Patrick Tschudi. They met at a Zurich bank event for young artists. Today social media plays a role in the search for new talent. Schlesinger however still works only with artists he personally admires. His selection process includes assessing whether the artist’s work fits his gallery’s overall program. He also considers whether his existing audience will appreciate a potential new artist’s creations.
The gallery hosts seven solo exhibitions annually. It also participates in art fairs in Switzerland and internationally. Galerie Alex Schlesinger is a member of the Association of Art Galleries in Switzerland and the Association of Galleries in Zurich. In October 2023 Alex Schlesinger was elected to the board of the Association of Swiss Galleries.
The prices of artworks vary. Many pieces fall within a similar price range around CHF 5000. However some are cheaper while others are significantly more expensive. Alex Schlesinger once had a customer who went on a buying spree at an art fair. She eventually paid off her purchases. The gallery owner hopes she now enjoys her collection debt-free. He says his customers generally buy with their hearts not for investment. They purchase art for their homes not their safes. Often new clients are drawn to the gallery through word-of-mouth. A neighbor might own a piece by a represented artist. That can lead a visitor to explore and ultimately purchase a piece themselves. The gallery’s story continues its unique blend of art commerce and human connection. It remains a Zurich landmark showcasing contemporary art for years to come.