RACHEL HARRISON in Accumulation: On Collecting, Growth and Excess

February 8 – May 25, 2025

Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst

The consequences of excessive growth are becoming ever more visible – and awareness of it is constantly increasing. Yet progress, prosperity and social status continue to be equated with the accumulation of material goods. Accumulation invites visitors to engage with the challenges of and alternatives to excess.

Over-consumption intensifies the climate crisis, deepens social inequalities and stabilises (neo-)colonial power relations. But what is the way out? What would the transition from a growth-oriented to a common-good-oriented society look like? The artists in this exhibition respond in different ways to this challenge: some address the issues directly, while others develop methodologies and strategies to counteract the logic of material accumulation.

Museums, too, are shaped by the logic of growth, as they strive to preserve relevant artistic positions for generations. This is shown in the constant expansion of collections. Should this practice of accumulation by museums be regarded critically? Are there alternative approaches to collecting that should be considered?

The exhibited works with their differing perspectives encourage reflection on the challenges of constant growth and invite discussions about visions for a society centred around the common good, environmental responsibility, and social justice.

For more information, please visit the Migros's website.