Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen in Dusseldorf

The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen is a remarkable art institution nestled in the heart of Düsseldorf, Germany. Established in 1961 by the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia, this world-renowned art collection encompasses three distinct exhibition venues: the K20 at Grabbeplatz, the K21 in the Ständehaus, and the Schmela Haus. The Kunstsammlung has garnered international acclaim for its focus on 20th-century art and has expanded its collection to include works up to the present day. The K20, with its iconic black granite façade, is home to major masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Piet Mondrian, as well as a diverse ensemble of approximately 100 drawings and paintings by Paul Klee. Its extension building, completed in 2010, offers a contemporary backdrop for the display of postwar American art, including works by Jackson Pollock, Frank Stella, and pop artists such as Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns. Moreover, the Ständehaus (K21), a historic building that previously housed the Parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, was transformed into an additional venue for the Kunstsammlung in 2002. This location showcases artist's rooms, large-scale installations, and a special focus on unique aspects of the collection. Adding to its allure, the Schmela Haus, a protected landmark designed by Dutch architect Aldo van Eyck, became part of the Kunstsammlung in 2009, serving as a rehearsal stage and lecture venue for various exhibitions. The rich history of the Schmela Haus, as the first building constructed in the Federal Republic of Germany explicitly as an art gallery, adds an intriguing layer to a visit to the Kunstsammlung. Offering over 10,000 m2 of exhibition space across its three locations, the institution is not only a bastion of artistic mastery but also a hub for educational programs and special projects that cater to visitors of all ages. Whether it's exploring the diverse art collection, engaging in interactive workshops, or delving into the historical and architectural significance of each venue, a visit to the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen promises an enriching and immersive cultural experience in Düsseldorf. This prominent art collection also serves as a dynamic platform for connecting visitors with the works held in the Regional Collection. The Education Department at the Kunstsammlung strives to ensure accessibility for all, offering a range of engaging activities such as studios, a media workshop, and a laboratory integrated into the exhibition galleries. By fostering a learning environment that encourages hands-on exploration, the institution enables visitors to connect with art in meaningful and thought-provoking ways. Moreover, visitors can partake in guided tours, workshops, and events, providing unique opportunities to deepen their understanding of the artistic heritage and cultural significance encapsulated within the walls of the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen.