Step into the tranquil Jenischpark. Feel the gentle breeze from the Elbe River. Before you stands the Ernst Barlach Museum a haven of art and history.
This is more than just a museum. It’s a testament to the life and work of Ernst Barlach a prominent Expressionist artist. Opened in 1962 it was the first private art museum in Northern Germany. Industrialist Hermann F Reemtsma founded it. He began collecting Barlach’s works in the 1930s. He wanted to protect them from the Nazis who deemed Barlach degenerate. Imagine the courage it took to defy such a regime.
The museum houses a remarkable collection. Nearly one-third of Barlach’s precious wood sculptures are here. You’ll see drawings from all his creative periods. His printed graphics are also displayed. Even rare portfolios and first editions are showcased. The collection has more than doubled since the museum’s opening. It includes works in wood bronze ceramics porcelain terracotta and plaster. It is a truly comprehensive look at a master artist.
The building itself is a work of art. Designed by Werner Kallmorgen it’s a modern light-flooded structure. Its functionalist design complements the serene park setting. The museum underwent an extension in 1996 adding new spaces for temporary exhibitions. The lighting is carefully designed to highlight the artwork. The lighting system adjusts to the natural light offering the optimal viewing experience.
The Ernst Barlach Museum is more than just a repository of art. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of art and a courageous act of preservation in the face of adversity. It is a must-see destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts. The museum offers guided tours lectures and even a concert series. Take your time explore each piece and immerse yourself in the world of Ernst Barlach. Let the art speak to you. Let the history resonate within you. Enjoy your visit to this unique gem in Hamburg’s Jenischpark.