Collection Brandhorst

With the Museum Brandhorst, the Kunstareal museum complex has gained a significant new additionIn conjunction with the collection of the Pinakothek der Moderne, the multifaceted profile of modern and contemporary art has been expanded in an impressive manner.

The Udo and Anette Brandhorst Collection, with its important work complexes, will open to the public in spring 2009 in a fascinating building designed by Sauerbruch Hutton architects. Both, architecture and works, further emphasize the city’s significant cultural importance and will trigger a far-reaching resonance. The paintings, sculptures and installations provide an aesthetic experience of exceptional immediacy and diversity, unlike that of virtually any other collection of private provenance in Germany.

From the very outset of their joint collecting activity, Udo and Anette Brandhorst were not only interested in the fine arts, but also in literature.

Understandably, their attention focused on the cooperation between painters and poets in particular. This is shown in an impressive way by the 112 original editions of books illustrated by Picasso – with few exceptions this comprises virtually the whole of Picasso’s œuvre in this field. Works on paper by Kasimir Malevich, Kurt Schwitters, Joan Miró and others round off this complex.

ArchitectureThe building of Sauerbruch Hutton architects in Berlin is a long, two-storey, rectangular structure abutting a considerably higher, trapezium-shaped section that widens to the north. The precise contours of both parts are linked by a continuous ribbon glazing that culminates in the generous glazed area at the main entrance. Here a corner window running the full height of the building cuts boldly through the structure to the North West, ensuring that the spacious foyer with the museum ticket desk, bookshop and restaurant receive natural light from three sides and enjoy different views.

Following the exhibition Food for the Mind at Munich's Haus der Kunst in 2000, specific acquisitions were made to expand certain groups of works. The Brandhorst Collection now comprises more than 700 works.

The Museum Brandhorst opens on 21 May. From May 21 – May 24 you have the opportunity to get to know the collection free of charge from 10.00 am – 10.00 pm.

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