Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. (New Berlin Art Society)

Living up to its reputation as a contemporty city, Berlin's central Mitte district plays proud host to the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. The association aims to bring an international audience close to cutting edge fine art; from drawings, sculptures and instillations to photography and film. There is an "Artothek", an art library where, for a small fee, non-members can borrow a work of art for up to six months. Here, visitors are invited to browse more than 4000 pieces produced by young artists and students from Berlin’s universities of arts – and take home their favourite pieces if they wish. Exhibitions change regularly in both form and content and tend to focus on current topics, from what’s happening in Berlin to society in general.

Art for everyone: a breath of fresh air

The "Art for Everyone" motto brings a freshness to Berlin’s art scene. As well as making art more accessible to the public, the institution is instrumental in supporting Berlin-based artists. People who don’t have the money to buy expensive works, or for those that simply love change, the opportunity to borrow art pieces is one not to miss. But it’s not all about two dimensional art. The museum houses a collection of more than 1,600 internationally-made films which often form part of screenings and presentations. These films range from those made in the association’s early days in the 1960s, to more recent ones, and since 2008, the entire collection has been available for viewing in a separate space.
The Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. boasts ever-changing exhibitions, and visitors are invited on a journey of discovery through the arts of the 20th and 21st centuries. Minimalist décor brings the artworks to the forefront: walls are painted black or white, and the concrete floors have been left bare. The modes of art vary greatly, from colourful installations and photographs to watercolours, delicate line drawings and glass-bound prints. But whatever is on display, you can be sure that the museum is bringing people closer to art, and at the same time, is acting as a wind stirring up the art world itself. The themes of the works lean towards the social and political, making the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. an important hub of Berlin’s art world.

Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. Highlights

• Lending of works from international artists.
• Art library with 4000 works.
• Video-Forum with around 1,600 art films.
• Talks and discussions with the artists themselves.
• Art for everyone.

Attractions close to the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k

Just 5km away lies the Neue Gesellschaft für bildende Kunst nGbK – a democratically based art association. This 400 square metre venue hosts between 6 and 11 exhibitions annually, focusing on social issues such as racism, nationalism and city policy. The members of the association decide democratically on the exhibition programme during their annual meeting.

Our recommendations for your visit

It’s easy to reach the Neuer Berliner Kunstverein n.b.k. Take tram number M5 or bus number 142. Admission is free, and you will find up-to-date opening times online. While there, remember to visit the Video-Forum. In the Artothek, all Berlin residents over the age of 16 can borrow a piece of art free of charge for up to six months. A small insurance fee does apply. The Kunstverein is open late on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

 

Opening hours