There are moments every year that feel a little magical to us – and one of them is Frank’s birthday in November.
For many years now, we’ve had a tradition: Laura plans a surprise trip, and Frank has absolutely no idea where they’re going.
The only clues come with the packing instructions – “elegant,” “warm,” “comfortable.” Everything else remains a mystery until we’re standing at the gate.
This year, the destination was Basel.
And honestly? It couldn’t have been more perfect.
Basel – A City Painted in November Light
We love cities that breathe art – and Basel is definitely one of them.
During our first walk along the Rhine, we immediately felt it: Something is happening here.
Modern architecture, creative energy, that uniquely Swiss clarity that still feels welcoming.
A perfect backdrop for Frank’s birthday weekend.
Yayoi Kusama in Basel – and We Stepped Right Into Her Universe
The real reason for our trip was the major exhibition of Yayoi Kusama, an artist who has fascinated both of us for years.
We had high expectations.
And they were exceeded.
Entering Kusama’s World
The moment we stepped inside, we were caught by the intensity of her art:
- those glowing, pulsating colors
- the iconic polka dots
- sculptures that feel like they arrived from another dimension
- and of course, the Infinity Rooms, which truly took our breath away
For Frank, the most impressive part was how Kusama uses light – not just as illumination, but as a medium in itself.
This interplay between material, reflection, and emotion felt almost like an artistic dialogue.
“I stood there thinking: This is the kind of art that breaks boundaries — just as aluminum does for my own work,” Frank later said.
A Glimpse Into Infinity
Standing together inside an Infinity Room was one of those moments that make you completely quiet.
Surrounded by mirrors, dots, and light — and yet entirely within yourself.
A feeling that’s hard to describe, and impossible to forget.
Art, Architecture & Birthday Bliss
Of course, we didn’t only visit the exhibition.
We explored Basel:
- cozy cafés glowing in the November fog
- architecture that’s both modern and poetic
- galleries filled with surprising art
- restaurants perfect for long conversations
And yes — there was birthday cake.
And a dinner that felt like a little holiday within the holiday.
It was one of those trips that remind you:
Life is art. And sometimes it paints the most beautiful picture all on its own.
Basel and Kusama reminded us why we love art:
Because it moves something inside us.
Because it opens spaces.
Because it connects people.
And because, just like surprises, it makes life richer.