“A gift of several hundred artworks” That’s how the story of the Kleihues-Bau began. The Kornwestheim City Gallery existed since 1975. It lacked a permanent home though. Rotating exhibitions filled the municipal cultural center. Then came a significant donation. The estate of Manfred Henninger transformed the gallery’s future. The city council made a bold decision in 1987. They commissioned the construction of a dedicated building. Architect Josef Paul Kleihues was chosen. His design became the Kleihues-Bau.
Construction followed in 1988 and 1989. The Kleihues-Bau opened its doors on November 24 1989. This was during a large exhibition celebrating Philipp Matthäus Hahn. The first art exhibition showcased Joseph Beuys’ remarkable work. The Kleihues-Bau hosted other notable artists. A.R Penck Tomi Ungerer and Georg Baselitz all graced its walls.
The Kleihues-Bau wasn’t without its challenges. It closed for three years beginning in 2000. A new concept emerged during this time. The museum reopened in 2003. It was now called the Museum im Kleihues-Bau. The collection expanded. A new section focused on Kornwestheim’s cultural history.
The Kleihues-Bau’s significance grew. In June 2017 it was recognized as a cultural heritage site in Baden-Württemberg. Its design the careful integration of art and history and its role in the cultural life of Kornwestheim secured its place as a landmark. The Kleihues-Bau stands as a testament to artistic vision architectural skill and the enduring power of cultural preservation. The Kleihues-Bau continues to thrive a dynamic space where art history and community converge. The Kleihues-Bau is a must-see for anyone visiting Kornwestheim. This architectural gem is a treasure for generations to come. You can visit the Kleihues-Bau today and discover its remarkable story firsthand.