The Kölnischer Kunstverein is an exhibition space and association in Cologne, committed to the dissemination of contemporary art through the creation of temporary exhibitions.
The origin of the association is ancient and dates back to 1839: today it is one of the oldest and most renowned exhibition institutions for contemporary art in Germany. From April to September 1839, the first European art exhibition was held in Cologne, with over 500 works, many of them for sale. Since then, the Kölnischer Kunstverein has been integrated into the cultural life of the city. Since 2003, the artistic association has been based in the “Die Brücke” building in Hahnenstrasse. The house was built in 1949/50 by the Cologne architect Wilhelm Riphahn, with the aim of creating a symbolic place for dialogue in the city destroyed by war.
Today, the association is committed to the realization of exhibitions of internationally renowned artists, but also of emerging artists, who find a fundamental exhibition space in the Kölnischer Kunstverein.
