Susanne Bartsch, known for her iconic parties and bold fashion sense, recently made an emotional return to her home country, Switzerland, for the opening of her new exhibit, Transformation! at Zurich’s Museum für Gestaltung. The exhibition showcases over 35 of her most iconic looks, taking the audience on a transformative journey through outfit, appearance, and space.
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At the exhibit’s opening, Bartsch, dressed in a metallic blue ensemble and a unique wig, was visibly moved as she addressed the crowd of admirers. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to see her work showcased and intellectualized, describing it as an incredible experience. The event coincided with the kickoff of Zurich Pride Festival 2025, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Bartsch opened up about the emotional process of curating the exhibition and the significance of returning to her roots in Switzerland. She highlighted the importance of leaving home to find herself and how coming back to be celebrated for her accomplishments felt like a rewarding experience. The exhibition represents a look forward in her creative journey, showcasing both past and current looks that reflect her ongoing creativity.
Bartsch also shared her excitement about being a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars and praised RuPaul for creating a supportive community in the drag world. When asked about her travel essentials for the exhibit in Zurich, Bartsch revealed that while most items were shipped, she personally brought only two bags, emphasizing the challenge of packing fragile costumes, shoes, and elaborate hairpieces.
Reflecting on the evolution of the nightlife scene in New York, Bartsch expressed concern about the impact of social media on people’s social interactions and the sense of community. She highlighted the importance of physical spaces like nightclubs as places where people can connect and be present in the moment, away from digital distractions.
In discussing her continued innovation in the nightlife industry, Bartsch credited her passion for creating safe, fun spaces for people to express themselves and connect with others. She described the joy she feels when hosting events and the motivation it provides to keep pushing boundaries and exploring new creative avenues.
As Susanne Bartsch’s Transformation! exhibition continues to captivate audiences in Switzerland, her legacy as a nightlife pioneer and fashion icon remains as vibrant and inspiring as ever. With a career spanning decades and a commitment to fostering creativity and community, Bartsch’s influence continues to shape the cultural landscape of both New York City and beyond.