In conjunction with the 2027 International Garden Exhibition (IGA) in the Ruhr region, the Gustav Lübcke Museum in Hamm is exploring the cultural history of the garden. With the exhibition “It Was the Gardener! Garden Worlds: From the Arbor to the Ancient Egyptian Palace Garden,” which runs from April through October 2027, takes visitors on a journey through some 5,000 years of garden history. The starting point is the Gustav-Lübcke-Museum’s significant collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, whose treasures are juxtaposed with contemporary objects of art and cultural history.
The exhibition aims to address key themes of the IGA 2027 and present content on sustainable urban development and future-proof living spaces. There is also a special focus on allotment garden culture in Westphalia and the Ruhr region. Individuals, families, and clubs contribute personal mementos, historical bylaws, and gardening tools. The communities share their knowledge of plants with visitors and, in recorded interviews, discuss topics such as self-sufficiency and landscape maintenance.
Guided tours, events, and other educational programs also offer guests unique insights into the world of gardening. They bridge the gap between historical gardening culture and current issues: How are green spaces transforming our cities? What is the significance of community gardens? How do we want to live in the future?
