Seminal works by the collective that redefined modern art

The Kupferstichkabinett in Berlin's Kulturforum presents The Cosmos of "Der Blaue Reiter" from 1 March to 15 June 2025. This comprehensive exhibition showcases works by the influential Munich-based artist collective "Der Blaue Reiter", founded in 1911. With masterpieces by Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc and others, it offers a rare chance to explore the groundbreaking artistic spirit that redefined modern art.

August Macke, „Landschaft mit hellem Baum“, 1914, 22,2 x 30,9 cm

Franz Marc, „Ruhende Pferde“, 1912, Farbholzschnitt, 17 x 22,9 cm (Druck)

The Cosmos of "Der Blaue Reiter" at a glance

For the first time, the Kupferstichkabinett is dedicating a comprehensive exhibition to "Der Blaue Reiter", featuring works that reflect the group's revolutionary approach to art. Despite losses during the Nazi era, the museum has rebuilt its collection, now featuring a remarkable array of watercolours, drawings and prints.

Visitors can admire early works by Kandinsky that delve into the spiritual dimension of art, Franz Marc's emotive depictions of animals and August Macke's French-inspired watercolours. Heinrich Campendonk's intricate woodcuts further highlight the collective's diversity. Complementing these are works by André Derain, Natalia Goncharova and others, illustrating how "Der Blaue Reiter" became a force field uniting European artists before the First World War.

The Cosmos of "Der Blaue Reiter" highlights

Masterpieces of modern art: Explore watercolours, drawings, and prints from key members of "Der Blaue Reiter" alongside works by their contemporaries.
Rare insights: View the personal and creative correspondence of Franz Marc and Else Lasker-Schüler, showcasing their unique artistic synergy.
Cultural context: Discover the influence of Bavarian votive art and Russian broadsheets on the collective's works.
Exclusive loans: Marvel at additional works on loan, adding depth to the already impressive collection.
Further afield: Expand your exploration with the concurrent exhibition "Kandinsky's Universe: Geometric Abstraction in the 20th Century" at the Museum Barberini in Potsdam.

Discover The Cosmos of "Der Blaue Reiter"

"Der Blaue Reiter" symbolises a turning point in modern art. Founded by Kandinsky and Marc, the collective championed the liberation of colour and form, paving the way for abstraction. Their vision extended beyond European influences, incorporating folk traditions and religious motifs, leading to a stylistically diverse yet spiritually cohesive body of work.

The group's legacy lies in their openness to collaboration and innovation. Their Munich exhibitions in 1912, including "Black and White", invited participation from artists such as Natalia Goncharova and Emil Nolde, underscoring their commitment to artistic exchange. Tragically, their activities were cut short by the outbreak of World War I, but their influence endures.

Top tips for The Cosmos of "Der Blaue Reiter"

Tickets can be purchased online.
Discounts are available for students, seniors and visitors with disabilities.
The exhibition is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The Kulturforum can be easily reached by public transport. Take the underground (U2) or S-Bahn to Potsdamer Platz; several bus lines also serve the area.
The venue is wheelchair accessible.

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Additional information

Opening hours:

Wed 10:00 - 17:00 Uhr
Thu10:00 - 17:00 Uhr
Fri 10:00 - 17:00 Uhr
Sat 11:00 - 18:00 Uhr
Sun 11:00 - 18:00 Uhr

On public holidays, the museums of the Berlin State Museums are generally open as on Sundays. Exceptions are indicated separately. Changes are possible.

Participating artists

Heinrich Campendonk

Robert Delaunay

Alexej von Jawlensky

Wassily Kandinsky

Paul Klee

Oskar Kokoschka

Alfred Kubin

Else Lasker-Schüler

Franz Marc

August Macke und Gabriele Münter – sowie weiteren Arbeiten von Jutta Damme

Sonia Delaunay

André Derain

Natalja Gontscharowa

August Gaul

Jacoba van Heemskerck

Erich Heckel

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner

Wilhelm Kuhnert

Emil Nolde und Max Pechstein.

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