Special Exhibitions

Overview

Nestled along the scenic Museum Embankment in Frankfurt, Germany, the Städel Museum stands as a beacon of art history, with its 'Special Exhibitions' offering a dynamic journey through diverse artistic landscapes. While the museum's permanent collection spans seven centuries of European art, from Old Masters to contemporary works, it is within the dedicated spaces for special exhibitions that visitors encounter rotating presentations of exceptional depth and thematic focus. These temporary shows are meticulously curated, bringing together works from the Städel's own extensive holdings and significant international loans, providing fresh perspectives and exploring specific artists, movements, or cultural contexts.

These exhibitions are an essential part of the Städel's mission to engage, educate, and inspire, ensuring that each visit can offer a unique and often groundbreaking encounter with art. They serve as a vibrant complement to the museum's foundational collection, drawing art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike to delve into specific narratives and artistic dialogues not continuously on display.

History & Cultural Background

The Städel Museum boasts a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1817, making it one of Germany's oldest and most respected museum foundations. It was founded by the Frankfurt banker and art patron Johann Friedrich Städel, who bequeathed his entire fortune, house, and extensive art collection to create an institute 'for the benefit of the local city and citizenry.' This philanthropic act laid the groundwork for a public institution dedicated to art education and appreciation.

Over two centuries, the Städel's collection has grown significantly, evolving through various periods of European history, including challenging times like the confiscation of 'degenerate art' during the Nazi era and damage during World War II, followed by subsequent rebuilding and expansion. A pivotal moment for the 'Special Exhibitions' came with the construction of a dedicated expansion building in 1990 by architect Gustav Peichl, specifically designed to house these temporary shows and 20th-century works. Further enhancing this capacity, a remarkable underground wing, designed by Schneider+Schumacher, opened in 2012, significantly increasing the display area for contemporary art and special presentations. This architectural evolution underscores the museum's ongoing commitment to presenting a broad and varied spectrum of art.

What Makes It Special

The 'Special Exhibitions' at the Städel Museum are distinguished by their exceptional quality, scholarly rigor, and capacity to surprise and delight. They delve into diverse themes, from in-depth explorations of influential artists like Claude Monet or Rembrandt to thematic surveys covering specific art historical periods, techniques, or cultural phenomena. These exhibitions are not merely showcases but often represent years of research, bringing together artworks that might otherwise be scattered across the globe.

What truly sets them apart is the balance they strike between historical masterworks and cutting-edge contemporary art. The underground extension, sometimes playfully referred to as the 'Städel Garden' or 'Teletubby mound' due to its gently domed, grass-covered roof punctured by circular skylights, provides a unique and atmospheric setting for these shows. Natural light filters into the subterranean galleries, creating an inspiring environment that enhances the viewing experience. This architectural marvel allows for flexible exhibition layouts and offers an immersive space that complements the art within, making each special exhibition feel like a distinct event.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One fascinating aspect of the Städel's enduring legacy stems from Johann Friedrich Städel's original will, which contained an unusual but forward-thinking clause: anything not considered 'absolutely top-class' could be sold to acquire better works. This dedication to excellence has undoubtedly shaped the museum's stellar collection and its commitment to high-caliber special exhibitions.

The 2012 underground extension for special exhibitions is a 'fun fact' in itself. Instead of building upwards and altering the historic skyline along the Main River, the architects Schneider+Schumacher created a subterranean world. The visible part of this extension is merely the 'dome' of skylights that emerge from the Städel Garden, allowing natural light to illuminate the galleries below. This innovative design, described as creating a 'stunning jewel' at night as artificial light radiates upwards, avoids competing with the historical building while providing ample, flexible exhibition space. Highly popular past special exhibitions, such as 'Making Van Gogh' in 2019/2020 and 'Monet und die Geburt des Impressionismus' in 2015, drew hundreds of thousands of visitors, showcasing the immense public interest in these temporary presentations.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the 'Special Exhibitions' at the Städel Museum offers a profound and enriching experience. Travelers can expect thoughtfully curated displays that invite deep engagement with the art. The museum provides various digital tools and mediation programs, including audio guides available on personal devices and 'digitorials' that offer in-depth background information, allowing visitors to explore the narratives behind the artworks at their own pace.

The flexible nature of the special exhibition spaces means each show is designed to maximize the impact of the featured works. Whether it's a retrospective of a renowned painter, a thematic exploration of photography, or a cutting-edge installation by contemporary artists, the Städel ensures a stimulating visual and intellectual journey. The opportunity to see significant works on loan from international institutions makes these exhibitions truly unmissable for anyone passionate about art. It's an experience that offers not just viewing, but genuine discovery and a deeper understanding of artistic expression across time and cultures. Many visitors take advantage of special offers, such as the 'Tuesday Special,' to enjoy both the permanent collection and special exhibitions.