Nestled in the heart of Dessau-Roßlau in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation (Stiftung Bauhaus Dessau) stands as a beacon of modernist design and architectural innovation. This iconic institution, housed in the historic Bauhaus building, is not just a testament to a revolutionary art movement but also a vibrant center for research, education, and experimental design. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about one of the most influential art schools of the 20th century, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation promises an enlightening and inspiring experience.
The story of the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation is deeply intertwined with the tumultuous history of Germany in the 20th century. The original Bauhaus school was founded by Walter Gropius in Weimar in 1919, and it moved to Dessau in 1925. However, the rise of the National Socialist Party led to its closure in 1932. Despite the political turmoil and the destruction during World War II, the Bauhaus architecture managed to survive, albeit with some damage.
It wasn't until 1976, on the 50th anniversary of the Bauhaus building, that the East German government recognized the significance of the Bauhaus legacy and undertook its reconstruction. This led to the establishment of the Scientific-Cultural Center (WKZ), which began to rebuild the Bauhaus collection and revive the Bauhaus stage. The WKZ laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation.
In 1994, following the reunification of Germany, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation was officially established by the German federal government, the state of Saxony-Anhalt, and the city of Dessau. The foundation was tasked with preserving the heritage of the historical Bauhaus and making it accessible to the public. In 1996, the Bauhaus sites in Weimar and Dessau were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, further cementing their importance on the global stage.
Visitors to the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation are greeted by the strikingly modernist Bauhaus building, designed by Walter Gropius himself. The building's sleek lines, functional design, and use of industrial materials are quintessential examples of Bauhaus principles. Inside, the foundation offers a wealth of exhibitions, programs, and activities that delve into the history and ongoing relevance of Bauhaus ideas.
The foundation's collection is the second-largest dedicated to the history of the Bauhaus, boasting around 49,000 objects. These include graphics, sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs, furniture, and teaching materials from the Bauhaus period. The collection not only highlights the artistic achievements of Bauhaus members but also provides insight into the educational methods and philosophies that underpinned their work.
In 2019, to mark the centenary of the Bauhaus school, the Bauhaus Museum Dessau was opened in the city park of Dessau. This state-of-the-art museum offers a comprehensive display of the foundation's collection, allowing visitors to explore the full breadth and depth of Bauhaus creativity. The museum's design, by the Spanish architectural firm Addenda Architects, is itself a nod to Bauhaus principles, with its clean lines and functional spaces.
The Bauhaus Dessau Foundation is not just a museum but also an active educational institution. The academy within the foundation conducts research on Bauhaus pedagogy and offers programs that allow students and young professionals from various design disciplines to learn, research, and create in the tradition of the Bauhaus. In collaboration with Anhalt University, the foundation offers an international master's program in COOP Design Research, which attracts students from around the world.
The curatorial workshop at the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation plays a crucial role in fulfilling the foundation's mission to disseminate Bauhaus knowledge. This workshop prepares and presents the foundation's research and expertise on Bauhaus topics, exploring innovative ways to engage the public. One notable initiative is the Bauhaus Agents program, a collaboration with local schools aimed at developing new educational concepts tailored for children and young people.
The Bauhaus Dessau Foundation hosts a variety of events and activities that bring the spirit of Bauhaus to life. The historic Bauhaus stage is used for artistic and interdisciplinary projects, continuing the tradition of experimental performance. Each year, the foundation hosts the Bauhaus Festival, a two-day event that celebrates the legacy of Bauhaus with art, dance, and design from students and professionals. The festival is a vibrant, public celebration that highlights the enduring influence of Bauhaus ideas.
For contemporary artists, the Bauhaus Residency program offers a unique opportunity to live and work in the Meisterhäuser, the historic homes of Bauhaus masters. These residencies allow artists to engage with the foundation's annual themes and present their work in the Haus Gropius || Contemporary exhibition.
The Bauhaus Dessau Foundation is also a hub for scholarly research on the Bauhaus and its impact. The foundation publishes extensively on Bauhaus topics and collaborates with national and international institutions to advance the study of Bauhaus history and its contemporary relevance.
In conclusion, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in modern art, design, and architecture. Its rich history, extensive collection, and dynamic educational programs offer a deep dive into the world of Bauhaus, while its events and activities ensure that the Bauhaus spirit remains vibrant and relevant today. Whether you're exploring the iconic Bauhaus building, delving into the collection at the Bauhaus Museum Dessau, or participating in one of the foundation's many programs, a visit to the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation is sure to be an inspiring and enlightening experience.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
