Architecture
Welcome to the Bucerius Kunst Forum
Located on the Alter Wall, the Bucerius Kunst Forum is a lively destination, bringing art from all periods and disciplines into the centre of Hamburg’s cultural life. Behind its historic façade, four floors are devoted to art and creativity. It is a place for dialogue that invites reflection on the role of art in a free and democratic society.
An Exhibition Space of Endless Possibilities
The flexible exhibition gallery of the Bucerius Kunst Forum offers ever-changing ways of experiencing art through a variety of presentation formats. Whether experienced as one expansive space or divided into smaller, more intimate rooms, the architecture – defined by elegant columns, refined illuminated ceilings, and dark terrazzo flooring – creates a distinctive and atmospheric setting. Supported by state-of-the-art lighting and climate control, the space enables the presentation of exceptional loans from leading international museums such as MoMA, the Louvre, and the Prado.
Auditorium and Atrium: A Place for Encounters
With its adjoining atrium, the spacious auditorium serves as a hub for readings, concerts, talks, and lively discussions. These events invite visitors to experience art collectively and to engage with ideas and questions that resonate far beyond the exhibition space.
An Open Studio for Creative Expression
Located at canal level in the basement, the studio is at the heart of the education and outreach programme, offering a playful and accessible approach to art. Visitors of all ages are regularly invited to explore art together– creatively, hands-on, and without barriers.
Visitor Services and the Bucerius Book Shop
Both the ground-floor entrance foyer and the seating lounge on the first floor offer welcoming spaces to relax and linger throughout a visit. The Oasis on the second floor provides a quiet retreat to reflect on the exhibition, browse a carefully curated selection of art books, and enjoy a cold beverage from the bar.
On the ground floor, the Bucerius Book Shop offers a carefully curated selection of art and literature, along with stationery and gift items – an inviting place to browse and be inspired.
The Bucerius Kunst Forum is easily reached from Rathausmarkt via Alten Wall, via the Fleet Bridge connecting Neuer Wall with the Bucerius Passage, or through the underground car park with direct access to the Passage.
From conferences and seminars to exclusive receptions, our versatile spaces provide an exceptional setting. The distinctive architecture of the Bucerius Kunst Forum transforms every event into a memorable experience.
Gesellschaftsspiegel
Sculptures by Olafur Eliasson
Alter Wall is lined with two sculptures by Olafur Eliasson titled Gesellschaftsspiegel. Rising nine metres high, the twin towers are embedded with kaleidoscopes that invite visitors to look skywards. Through these shifting reflections, familiar surroundings are seen from new perspectives, drawing viewers into the work as active participants.