Museum
Collection de l'Art Brut
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The Collection de l'Art Brut in Lausanne is a one-of-a-kind museum that celebrates 'art brut', raw, unpolished creations made outside the boundaries of official culture. Housed in a striking 18th-century mansion (Château de Beaulieu) set within a tranquil park, the museum offers a serene yet thought-provoking experience. The collection features over 70,000 works by self-taught artists, including psychiatric patients, prisoners, and eccentrics, whose pieces are unfiltered by artistic training or commercial intent. Visitors will encounter everything from intricate drawings and sculptures to embroidered textiles and found-object assemblages. The displays are arranged thematically, highlighting the diversity of mediums and the deeply personal narratives behind each work. What makes this museum distinctive is its focus on the pure, often raw creativity of marginalized individuals, a stark contrast to mainstream art. The museum's quiet, contemplative atmosphere allows for deep engagement with each piece. A visit here is not just an art appreciation; it's an exploration of the human psyche and the universal urge to create.
Don't miss
- See works by Aloïse Corbaz, a Swiss schizophrenic artist known for vibrant, detailed drawings
- Explore the permanent collection of over 70,000 pieces, displayed in rotating exhibitions
- Admire the historic Château de Beaulieu building and its surrounding park
- Discover unusual mediums like embroidery, bone carvings, and matchstick sculptures
- Visit the museum's library and documentation center for deeper research
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Collection de l'Art Brut
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Collection de l'Art Brut with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inLausanne Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt4.5★ · 15 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Most bookedThe Olympic Museum Entrance Ticket in Lausanne4.6★ · 220 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Photography is allowed without flash in most areas. Check signage for restrictions.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English and French.
- The museum is closed on Mondays and on certain public holidays. Check the website before visiting.
- Don't miss the small gift shop with books and prints focused on outsider art.
A bit of history
The collection was founded in 1945 by French artist Jean Dubuffet, who coined the term 'art brut' to describe art created outside the confines of traditional culture. Dubuffet donated his vast collection to the city of Lausanne in 1971, and the museum opened in its current location in 1976.
Common questions
What is 'art brut'?
Art brut, or 'raw art', refers to works created by self-taught artists outside the mainstream art world, often with no formal training and using unconventional materials.
How long does it take to see the entire museum?
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours. If you're an art enthusiast, allow up to 3 hours.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, but some works may be intense or disturbing. The museum offers family-friendly activities on certain days.
Can I take photos?
Yes, without flash or tripod. Some temporary exhibitions may prohibit photography.
Is there a café or restaurant?
No café on-site, but there are benches in the park. Several cafés are within a 10-minute walk.
How do I get there from the train station?
Take bus #2 or #21 from the station to 'Beaulieu' stop. Alternatively, it's a pleasant 20-minute walk through the city.
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