The concrete cube, erected in 1967, is one of the most striking buildings in Düsseldorf, and a rare exemplar of so-called Brutalist architecture. Accommodated here are the Kunsthalle Düsseldorf and the Kunstverein. Not only outwardly, but also conceptually, this exhibition venue distinguishes itself from other Düsseldorf institutions by virtue of having no collection of its own. For some time now, the Kunsthalle Düsseldorf has been a locale for possibilities: it is the germinating cell for inspiring ideas, a stronghold of art discourse, and at times of provocation as well.
Also belonging to the Kunsthalle Düsseldorf is the exhibition space KIT – Kunst im Tunnel, an equally extraordinary locale for art.
Artistic direction: Dr. Gregor Jansen
Art in Düsseldorf: A special perspective
Inconspicuous and special
The Kunsthalle Düsseldorf cannot be overlooked – although at times, the unobtrusive works of art in the outer area can be. Protruding from the façade, for example, is a stovepipe – “Black Hole” is the title of this work by Joseph Beuys, who made a gift of it to the city. Recognizable upon closer inspection of the joints directly above the entrance to the Kunsthalle is a red, speckled paint application: “Tears” by James Lee Byars dates from 1986. And in the corner of the building is found the Salon des Amateurs. Besides the café during the daytime the Electroclub and evenings, this is the setting for regular installments of the Approximation Festival, which probes the limits of the piano. www.salondesamateurs.de; opening hours: Tue-Thu: 11:30 AM to circa 1 PM, Fri+Sat: 11:30 AM to 3 PM, Sun: 11:30 AM to 6 PM.