Iwalewahaus
University of Bayreuth museum for contemporary African art and culture, with a collection unique in Germany.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Iwalewahaus was inaugurated on November 27, 1981, to strengthen the Africa focus of the University of Bayreuth and to present non-European art to a broad public. Its founder and first director was Ulli Beier, an expert on Nigerian art. The name comes from Yoruba and can be translated as “character is beauty.”
Until the end of 2013, the house was located in the former Markgräfliche Münze (Margrave’s Mint) on Münzgasse, a sandstone building from the 18th century. On November 4, 2013, it moved to Wölfelstraße 2, a building erected in 1907 for the Bayerische Staatsbank in a Baroque-influenced Art Nouveau style, with exhibition, office, and archive spaces.
The collection of modern and contemporary art from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific is largely based on the private collection of Ulli Beier, and its focus is on Nigeria. The archive also holds music, video films, and textiles. Alongside changing exhibitions, the house conducts research and teaching on the contemporary culture of Africa and its diaspora.
Highlights
- Collection of modern and contemporary art from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific
- Focus on Nigeria, including the Oshogbo school and Nsukka graphic art
- Archive with African music and video productions
- Changing exhibitions of contemporary art
- Art Nouveau building from 1907
- Founded
- 1981
- Operated by
- Universität Bayreuth
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Admission to all current exhibitions is free.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: no information
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
A barrier-free entrance is located in the inner courtyard and can be reached via Münzgasse.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
From Bayreuth main station, take VGN lines 302, 303, 305, 309, and 328 toward ZOH to ZOH or Luitpoldplatz; from ZOH, take line 304 toward Birken to Opernhaus. From the city center, the house is easily reached on foot.
From Nuremberg Airport, take the U2 to Nuremberg main station, then the regional train RE 30, RE 32, or RE 38 to Bayreuth.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tours are arranged by appointment. |
