The case
Richard Long in the Monastery Church Schönthal (BL) from 1 May to 7 December2025.
The commentary
Long’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in the act of walking. Since the mid-1960s, he has embarked on numerous walks across various terrains, including the Sahara Desert, Australia, Iceland and also his native Bristol. His journeys serve both as the process as well as the inspiration for his artworks. For instance, his iconic piece A Line Made by Walking (1967) was created by walking a continuous line into a field of grass, which he then photographed, emphasizing the transient nature of the artwork and its deep connection to the environment.
In his sculptures, Long often arranges natural materials into geometric forms such as circles, lines or spirals, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as meditative reflections on time, space and the natural world. James Cohan
My tip: Circular hike: Bärenwil – Belchen – Schönthal – Langenbruck – Bärenwil; approx. 16 km; takes about 4 hours. Altitude profile: Bärenwil (779 m) – Belchenfluh (1099 m) – Schönthal (735 m) – Langenbruck (701 m) – Bärenwil (779 m). Car park in Bärenwill BL. Or Belchenfluh circular hike with detour to Schönthal Monastery.
The journey can also be made by bike or eBike. Word of warning: the ascent to Belchen is technically difficult and demanding and is recommended for experienced bikers only!