It is important to learn that the Neue Nationalgalerie is an art institution in Berlin Germany and was actualized by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Designed in 1963 and finished in 1968 it has gained cult status and is one of the most striking examples of modern architecture. In this blog post, you will get acquainted with the information about the Neue Nationalgalerie, its background, the construction details, and the presented artworks.
A Brief History
After the Second World War, Germany yearned for a contemporary art museum to represent the nation that is why the construction of the Neue Nationalgalerie was initiated. The museum was initiated by the Berlin Senate in cooperation with famous art connoisseur Karl Friedrich Schinkel in the early 1960s. For the construction of this project, a famous architect of the twentieth century, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe known for his minimalist functionalist style was commissioned.
The construction started in 1965 and time and again got hampered because of political instability and fund crunch. But the dream of Mies van der Rohe came true at last when Neue Nationalgalerie was opened only for the public from September 15, 1968.
Architectural Features
The building designed by Mies van der Rohe for Neue Nationalgalerie is a fine specimen of modern move architecture. It is more minimalist with no ornamentation, a great number of glass and steel constructions, and much more open than pre-set’s museums, which was quite unique for the period.
The building consists of two main elements: The building, which stands as a rectangular structure on a concrete pad of 12 fat pads steel pipes, has a large, flat roof canopy. The ground floor of the gallery has couple of closed compartmented, however the major part is an open area where people don’t feel uncomfortable moving around in accessing the art works. Plenty of natural light gets into the interior through the floor to ceiling windows, thus blending the art work with its environment.
The principal façade is the entrance of the museum which is found under the floating roof canopy. It contains lighting systems to greet visitors while at the same time giving a form of a quick impression on the physical appearance of the whole building. Aside from its function as shelter from the elements, roof provides an architectural link between indoors and out.
Art Collection
The Neue Nationalgalerie’s collection is generally categorized as modern and post-war art, although the greater focus has been done on the artwork from the first half of the twentieth century to about the mid-century or 1960’s. Purchases are always from recognised artists and permanent stock at the gallery comes from artists like Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock, and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner.
That is why guests of Neue Nationalgalerie can see art in painting, sculpture, and photo, as well as graphic design. Guest exhibitions is another major section of the museum where current arts and notions about a constantly developing art world are displayed.
Tips for Visiting the Neue Nationalgalerie
- Plan your visit ahead of time: Check the museum’s website for opening hours, ticket information, and any special exhibitions or events.
- Consider a guided tour: To gain a deeper understanding of the museum’s history and the artworks on display, join a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts.
- Don’t miss the museum shop: The Neue Nationalgalerie features a well-curated museum shop where you can find unique art-related gifts, books, and posters.
- Take your time: The museum’s open design and calming ambiance encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the art. Take your time to appreciate each artwork and explore the different spaces within the museum.
- Photography: While photography is generally allowed in the museum, be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines imposed on certain artworks or exhibitions.
Conclusion
Actually, the Neue Nationalgalerie is one more masterpiece of Berlin that serves as an outstanding example of architecture vision of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Boasting a high level of architectural design along with a presenting an exclusive collection of art pieces, the museum will attract anybody with an interest in the Arts and anybody who is interested in modern construction and design. Take a walk in the displayed hallways surrounded by spacious and naturally illuminated interiors and human imagination will be impressed by the art depicted in it.
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