The Museum Reinhard Ernst (mre) in Wiesbaden is a museum for lovers of Abstract art. It was opened on June 23, 2024 and displays the extensive art collection of Wiesbaden entrepreneur and benefactor Reinhard Ernst, who has made it his mission to make his extensive collection of abstract art accessible to the public.
Since the 1980s, Ernst has collected over 960 abstract artworks by renowned artists such as Josef Albers, Eduardo Chillida, Lucio Fontana, Gerhard Richter, Pierre Soulages and others. In addition to the permanent exhibition of this private collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions, which are organized in cooperation with other museums and present works on loan from international collections.
The building was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki, a long-time friend of Reinhard Ernst. Maki’s design is characterized by a cubic form and a modern, minimalist design, making a striking statement in the city’s architecture.
The three-story building consists of four blocks grouped around a square inner courtyard. The first floor is completely glazed, giving the impression that the building floats above the ground. The inner courtyard forms the heart of the building and is fully glazed across all floors, creating a bright and open atmosphere. The three-part sculpture “Buscando la luz III” by the artist Eduardo Chillida stands in the museum’s inner courtyard.
The museum’s exhibition rooms are located on the first and second floors. These floors offer a spacious and modern environment for the presentation of the diverse works of art. The clean spatial structure and well-thought-out lighting concept enhance the effect of the exhibits and create an appealing atmosphere for visitors.
The Museum Reinhard Ernst is not only a place of art, but also an example of the successful combination of art, architecture and personal commitment.
