Hans Erni Museum

About the museum

The Hans Erni Museum is dedicated to the life's work of the Lucerne artist Hans Erni (1909–2015), who helped shape 20th-century Swiss art as a painter, graphic artist, sculptor and designer. The building was erected in 1979 as a separate structure on the grounds of the Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz) and is run by the Hans Erni Foundation, which was established in 1976.

At its centre is the permanent exhibition of more than 300 works, which gives a cross-section of Erni's output: from politically and socially engaged works to posters, drawings, sculptures and large-format paintings. In the auditorium on the second floor hangs the mural “panta rhei”, two times 18 metres long, which brings together figures from the history of Western thought. Sculptures by the artist stand in the sculpture garden.

Since 2019 the art historian Heinz Stahlhut has directed the museum. Alongside the collection, the museum places Erni's work in dialogue with older and contemporary positions in changing exhibitions and discusses current issues in lectures and conversations. The museum is integrated into the Verkehrshaus operation and can be reached via its entrance.

Highlights

• Permanent exhibition with over 300 works by Hans Erni
• Mural “panta rhei” in the auditorium (two times 18 metres)
• Sculpture garden with works by the artist
• Free audio guide via app
• Children's workshops and guided tours

Permanent exhibition

• Dauerausstellung Hans Erni – Over 300 works from all creative phases of the Lucerne artist, plus the mural “panta rhei” in the auditorium and sculptures in the sculpture garden.

Founded

1979

Operated by

Hans-Erni-Stiftung

Director

Heinz Stahlhut

Admission & discounts

Admission to the Hans Erni Museum can be purchased separately; it is included in the museum ticket and the day pass of the Verkehrshaus.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The Verkehrshaus describes its museum as wheelchair accessible; four disabled parking spaces are located in front of the main entrance; guide and assistance dogs are permitted.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops

The museum offers children's workshops.

Getting there & parking

The museum is located on the Verkehrshaus grounds; the Verkehrshaus garden railway starts at its station.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop
• Lockers
• Wi-Fi

Catering and lockers of the Verkehrshaus (Mercato, Brasserie, Cafébar); the Verkehrshaus shop sells products relating to Hans Erni (books, silk scarves, reproductions) and there is an online shop.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

Up to 120 guests.

The auditorium with the mural “panta rhei” (189 m², 120 seats) can be hired exclusively outside opening hours.

Plan your visit