The State Museum is exhibiting art from after 1945 and invites visitors to its open day
Since April 23, 2026, the Hessian State Museum in Darmstadt has presented newly designed exhibition areas in the Karl Ströher Wing. The three rooms are dedicated to the artistic awakening after the Second World War, everyday objects, and the origins of digital imagery.
New perspectives on the collection
The new presentation was developed under the direction of Katrin Thomschke. It combines key works from the collection with rarely exhibited pieces and new artistic perspectives.
The exhibition is complemented by, among other things, a loan from the DZ BANK Art Foundation and a new acquisition by the artist Ulrike Rosenbach. Her installation on the role of women in the post-war period adds a special thematic focus.
Three themed areas ranging from new beginnings to digitalization
The exhibition is divided into three sections:
The room “Aufbruch” focuses on informal post-war painting, complemented by historical everyday objects and installations that illuminate the social context.
The "Everyday Objects" section showcases artistic positions from the 1960s in which materials, movement, and consumer culture play a central role. Works from the ZERO and Nouveau Réalisme movements illustrate the connection between art and everyday life.
The third room, "Digital Origins," explores the development of visual systems. Works by artists such as Gerhard Richter and Rosemarie Trockel demonstrate connections between analog art and digital ways of thinking.
Action Day on April 26th
To celebrate its reopening, the museum invites everyone to the "Come in!" event on April 26, 2026. Guided tours and events will be offered between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
A highlight is the performance of "Cello Counterpoint" by composer Steve Reich. This musical performance for eight cellos is a collaboration with the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts.
Program overview
The program includes guided tours for families, behind-the-scenes insights, and several musical performances throughout the day.
All activities are free of charge; only the regular museum admission fee applies. Free tickets for the musical performances will be distributed one hour before the start of each performance.
(DARMSTADT – RED/HLMD)
Featured image: View of the new exhibition in the Karl Ströher Wing. Photo: A. Ebert, HLMD © VG Bild-Kunst, Bonn 2026
