Kunsthalle Düsseldorf

Current exhibitions

About the museum

Düsseldorf's first Kunsthalle opened on July 3, 1881, with a costume parade by the artists' association Malkasten. The late neoclassical building by Ernst Giese and Paul Weidner was financed in part with compensation from the emperor, after the famous electoral painting collection had been taken to Munich in 1805.

After severe war damage, the old building was demolished in the 1960s. In 1967 the current building, with its striking facade of precast concrete elements, was built to plans by the architects Beckmann and Brockes. It was controversial for a long time – even Joseph Beuys is said to have called for its demolition – but a citizens' initiative secured its preservation in the 1990s. After renovation, the Kunsthalle reopened in July 2002.

As an exhibition venue without its own collection, the Kunsthalle presents changing solo and group exhibitions of contemporary art. The building is also home to the Kunstverein für die Rheinlande und Westfalen, the cabaret Kom(m)ödchen, a Walther König bookstore and the artists' club Salon des Amateurs.

The venue is run by a non-profit company. A renovation of around three years is planned to improve energy efficiency and accessibility; during this time the program is to continue at venues in Düsseldorf's neighborhoods.

Highlights

• Brutalist exhibition building by Beckmann and Brockes (1967)
• Changing exhibitions of contemporary art
• Walther König bookstore and artists' club Salon des Amateurs in the building
• Free admission on the 2nd Sunday of the month

Founded

1872

Operated by

Kunsthalle Düsseldorf gGmbH

Director

Alicia Holthausen (kommissarische künstlerische Leitung)

Admission & discounts

Free admission: Free admission every 2nd Sunday of the month and on the last Thursday of the month 18:00–21:00.

The visitor page does not list which groups are eligible for reduced admission.

Accessibility

• Partially wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits
• Sign language tours
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description

According to the Kunsthalle, not fully accessible due to the building's structure: no ramp at the entrance (doorbell), wheelchair access via a rear elevator accompanied by staff, accessible restroom on the third floor. Walking aids and folding stools available. Acoustic or multisensory tours and tours with interpretation into German Sign Language on request.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Stroller-friendly

Family day every 2nd Sunday of the month with free admission, a family tour and a studio session; multi-day holiday workshops and a children's museum night. Free admission up to age 18. With a stroller, use the doorbell to the left of the entrance to reach the rear elevator.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Walther König bookstore and artists' club Salon des Amateurs in the building.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this – please ask the museum directly.

Plan your visit