In Düsseldorf, the exhibition venues K20 and K21—known as the “Place of Art” and the “Place of Artists,” respectively—showcase works of classical modernism and contemporary art. K21, located in the Ständehaus, primarily serves as a space for temporary exhibitions.
The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen in Düsseldorf began with the acquisition of 88 works by Paul Klee, who had taught at the Düsseldorf Art Academy—just a few meters away—until the Nazis came to power in 1933.
Today, the Kunstsammlung NRW is an institution with two locations, showcasing art across some 10,000 square meters. With an impressive collection of works from classical modernism, including paintings by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Wassily Kandinsky, and Piet Mondrian, this state-owned gallery ranks among the most renowned collections of modern art.
K20 on Grabbeplatz, K21 in the Ständehaus
The K20 on Grabbeplatz, as a “place of art,” houses the Kunstsammlung’s permanent collection. Here, in a large hall, American art from after 1945 is on display, including works by Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Donald Judd, Jasper Johns, and Frank Stella.
The centerpiece is Jackson Pollock’s world-famous “Number 32.” Another focal point is contemporary art, featuring works by Gerhard Richter, Tony Cragg, Thomas Schütte, Katharina Fritsch, Imi Knoebel, and Joseph Beuys.
The K21 in the Ständehaus opened in 2002 as a venue for modern art. Beneath the glass dome of the former North Rhine-Westphalian state parliament building, it serves as a “place for artists” and provides space for exciting temporary exhibitions.
