A Collection with A Mission
The mre embodies the vision of entrepreneur Reinhard Ernst, a passionate art lover and collector who discovered his interest in abstraction during his numerous professional journeys around the globe. His collection focuses on post-war abstract art in Germany and Europe, abstract Japanese art, and abstract American expressionism. It spans over 960 paintings and sculptures, including works by internationally renowned artists such as Helen Frankenthaler, Morris Louis, Robert Motherwell, Tancredi Parmeggiani, Hans Hofmann, Katharina Grosse, Tony Cragg and Karl Otto Götz.
The Birth of An Architectural Masterpiece
Such a monumental collection requires an equally imposing space for display – a space that celebrates not only the art but also architecture as an art form. The ambitious project is funded by the non-profit Reinhard and Sonja Ernst Foundation, established in 2004. In close collaboration with Fumihiko Maki, a longtime friend of the couple, the dream of having their own museum became a reality. The name Maki reverberates in the world of architecture as a recipient of the international Pritzker Prize and the creator of masterpieces such as the 4 World Trade Center in New York and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. For the Museum Reinhard Ernst (mre), Maki has designed a structure that engages the senses and sets thoughts adrift . Incidentally, a temporary exhibition dedicated to Maki's life and work will accompany the opening of the mre. The mre, an impressive ensemble of four cubes enclosing a large atrium, rises on the corner plot. It incorporates the architectural and historical elements of neighboring buildings while adding a contemporary, visionary dimension. The ground floor, with its nearly fully glazed facade, opens up to Wilhelmstraße, creating an inviting connection to the surroundings. The upper cantilevered sections appear to float, making a striking aesthetic statement. The facade made of Bethel White granite gives the building a unique texture reminiscent of a sparkling sugar cube. Reflecting natural light, it imbues the building with an almost poetic quality, becoming a beacon of light on Wilhelmstraße – a place where architecture itself becomes art.
A Place of Art, Education, and Culture
Yet, the mre is not just a homage to abstract art and architecture. It is also a place of education and cultural exchange, with a mission to introduce abstract art to children and adults alike. The museum's ground floor is not only publicly accessible but also free of admission restrictions. Here, visitors can admire the art integrated into the building and experience the "Colour Lab" – a space that nurtures the creativity of young minds and is freely available to schools and educational institutions. The "Maki Forum" is another space on the ground floor used for lectures, workshops, galas, and concerts.
The acoustic design of the room, with hidden speakers, a technical balcony, and a tiered ceiling and wall construction, creates an inspiring environment for cultural events. The forum has a separate entrance, cloakroom, and catering area and can be used independently of the museum.
The First Exhibit
During intensive construction activities at the museum, the first work of art was transported to its place: "Pair" by Tony Cragg – a masterpiece of monumental scale and artistic refinement. With a height of over six meters and a weight of around four tons, the impressive sculpture was – using a crane – gently hoisted into the building's into the building's unfinished openings in May 2021, to take its rightful place within the museum's structure.
As a two-part artwork made of polished bronze, "Pair" captivates with its impressive size and complex design. The polished surfaces exude a mysterious aura and invite close scrutiny. The journey of "Pair" to the Museum Reinhard Ernst is the result of years of admiration and inspired collaboration between collector Reinhard Ernst and artist Tony Cragg. Their shared vision led to an impressive work of art that plays a significant role in the collection as a bridge between art and architecture.
An Architecture of Sustainability
The architecture of the mre is not only aesthetically appealing but also sustainably designed. A solar system on the museum's roof is expected to cover up a significant part of its energy needs, while maple and zelkova trees planted around the museum will create a green oasis in summer 2024.
With its opening in the second half of 2024, the Museum Reinhard Ernst will undoubtedly become a beacon of the cultural scene in Germany. The mre will further strengthen Wiesbaden's cultural axis and elevate the city's art scene to new heights. It is a place where the poetry of abstraction and the sophisticated architecture are in a constant interplay, to the delight of all visitors.
Museum Reinhard Ernst
Wilhelmstraße 1
65185 Wiesbaden
