Galerie Rössli

Galerie Rössli in Balsthal is a small art gallery at Herrengasse 8 in Balsthal, in the Thal region of the canton of Solothurn, Switzerland. It has shown work by artists tied to the canton for decades and is one of the best-known local addresses for contemporary art lovers.

How did the gallery begin?

The story starts in 1968. An exhibition staged for the village's 1000th anniversary opened in the basement of the Restaurant Rössli, and a permanent gallery grew out of it. One account also mentions a former greengrocer's shop converted into exhibition space. The early years were eventful, and the real turning point came in 1996.

Who runs it and what is on show?

In 1996 a team of volunteers took over and gave the gallery a clear profile: six exhibitions a year devoted to Solothurn artists. After twenty years the team had put on more than a hundred shows. In 2010 the cantonal culture board and government honoured it with a prize for cultural outreach. The gallery also works beyond its own walls. One example is NEUBEKANNT in 2000, a project pairing lesser-known artists in double exhibitions.

What will you see?

The space is intimate, so a visit is usually short. Shows change roughly every two months and present painting, prints and other visual arts by regional creators. A Ruth Berger exhibition was announced for late summer 2026. Check the current programme before you travel.

When should you visit?

The gallery opens around its exhibitions rather than daily. A 2020 flyer listed Sunday hours from 11:00 to 14:00, with visits at other times by appointment. Dates can vary with each show, so confirm them on the gallery's website or the Balsthal events listing.

How do you get there?

Herrengasse 8 is in the centre of Balsthal, so the gallery pairs easily with a stroll through the village. Balsthal is the main settlement of the Thal region, at the foot of the Jura range, and can be reached by road or public transport from nearby towns in the canton.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an admission fee? The sources do not state a fixed fee. The organisers give details with each exhibition.

How many exhibitions are held each year? Six. This has been the team's steady rhythm since 1996.

Whose work is shown? Mainly artists connected with the canton of Solothurn, both established names and lesser-known creators.

Can I visit on a weekday? Yes, by prior arrangement with the gallery team. Regular opening falls on Sunday around midday.