The museum holds one of the world's most significant collections of works by Paul Klee.
K21 is located inside the former Ständehaus, which served as the seat of the provincial parliament of the Rhine Province until 1988.
The facade of the K20 building consists of 3,600 black polished granite slabs that reflect the surrounding historic architecture.
The Schmela Haus, part of the museum group, was the first building in Germany constructed specifically as a private art gallery, designed by Aldo van Eyck.
The collection includes iconic works by Joseph Beuys, who was a professor at the nearby Düsseldorf Art Academy.
The interior of K21 features a massive, suspended 'in orbit' installation by Tomás Saraceno, which allows visitors to walk on nets spanning the central atrium.
The Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen is the state art collection of North Rhine-Westphalia, housed across three distinct locations in Düsseldorf: K20 at Grabbeplatz, K21 in the Ständehaus, and the Schmela Haus. The institution is internationally renowned for its 20th-century holdings, particularly the comprehensive collection of works by Paul Klee, totaling over 100 pieces. The K20 building, identifiable by its polished black granite facade designed by Dissing+Weitling, focuses on modern art spanning from Picasso and Matisse to the American Abstract Expressionists. K21, situated in a restored 19th-century parliament building, centers on contemporary art and large-scale installations. The collection maintains a strong emphasis on European avant-garde movements, including Surrealism and Dada. The museum serves as a primary research center for modern art, supported by an extensive specialized library. Its architecture often juxtaposes historical structures with modern functionality to provide varied exhibition experiences.
The central atrium of K21, specifically looking up at the 'in orbit' installation nets.
Dedicate separate days for K20 and K21, as they are located in different parts of the city center.
Check the official website for current temporary exhibitions, as the museum frequently rotates its permanent collection to highlight new themes.
Utilize the specialized art library at K20 for deeper research into the modern and contemporary artists featured.
Attempting to visit both the K20 and K21 sites in a single afternoon, as the travel time between them can disrupt the experience.
Closed on Mondays.
Photography is permitted for private use without flash; large bags and backpacks must be stored in provided lockers.
