From 16 July 2026, MASI Lugano’s LAC venue will host Diatom by John M Armleder. The monumental work, donated to the museum by the Swiss artist, is composed of two elements: one part will be installed in the first-floor foyer, while the other will extend along an entire wall of the bistrot and restaurant area, transforming the spaces into environments of strong visual and perceptual impact.

Created in 2005, Diatom has only rarely been presented to the public in major institutions, including MAMCO in Geneva in 2006 and Lokremise in St Gallen in 2010. Conceived as a large wall installation made of modular mirrored plexiglass elements, the work unfolds as a reflective surface in dialogue with the architecture and with those who move through it. Light, colours, movements and presences multiply and transform across its changing surface, making visitors an integral part of the work.

To welcome this new presence, on Thursday 16 July, from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm, MASI dedicates a special evening to Diatom, open to the public, with a welcome drink and a presentation of the work by MASI Director Letizia Ragaglia, in the presence of Studio Gest – Carefully Crafted Investment and Real Estate, whose support made the installation of the work possible.

The evening will then continue in the outdoor area of the bar: an opportunity to come together at MASI in the heart of the Lugano summer, during the days when the LongLake Festival brings the city to life. For the occasion, Luini 6 will offer a special happy hour format dedicated to the evening.

Thursday 16 July 2026, 6–8:30 pm
MASI Lugano, LAC venue / Luini 6
Welcome drink, presentation of the work and special aperitif format for the evening