ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Cabaret Voltaire's Dadaist Summer Transfer to Monte Verità

exhibition · 2026-04-27

While the Cabaret Voltaire undergoes renovations, its Dadaist essence relocates to Monte Verità in Ascona, Switzerland, for the exhibition titled 'Songs to the suns,' running from August 14 to October 2, 2021. Artists Izidora L. LETHE and Paul Maheke delve into the body as both an archive and a space for liberation. The program features performances and a discussion led by Minna Salami, Christa Baumberger, and Sophie Doutreligne, focusing on Dadaism and the feminist legacy of Monte Verità. This early 20th-century Lebensreform community attracted notable figures such as Hermann Hesse, D.H. Lawrence, and Isadora Duncan. The exhibition seeks to address contemporary issues through modern expressions, steering clear of nostalgia.

Key facts

  • Cabaret Voltaire is temporarily closed for renovations.
  • Exhibition 'Songs to the suns' runs from August 14 to October 2, 2021.
  • Venue: Monte Verità, Ascona, Canton Ticino, Switzerland.
  • Artists: Izidora L. LETHE and Paul Maheke.
  • Opening includes performances by LETHE and Maheke, a talk, DJ set, and dinner.
  • Talk participants: Minna Salami, Christa Baumberger, Sophie Doutreligne.
  • Monte Verità was a Lebensreform community in early 1900s.
  • Historical figures associated: Hermann Hesse, D.H. Lawrence, Isadora Duncan, Hugo Ball, Hans Arp, Hans Richter, Alexej von Jawlensky, Arthur Segal, El Lissitzky.

Entities

Artists

  • Izidora L. LETHE
  • Paul Maheke
  • Hermann Hesse
  • D.H. Lawrence
  • Isadora Duncan
  • Hugo Ball
  • Hans Arp
  • Hans Richter
  • Alexej von Jawlensky
  • Arthur Segal
  • El Lissitzky
  • Minna Salami
  • Christa Baumberger
  • Sophie Doutreligne
  • Giorgia Basili

Institutions

  • Cabaret Voltaire
  • Monte Verità
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Ascona
  • Canton Ticino
  • Switzerland
  • Monte Verità
  • Casa dei Russi

Sources