Alfred Schmela Galerie, Art gallery in Altstadt, Germany
The Alfred Schmela Galerie occupies a narrow, multi-level building that blends exposed brickwork with concrete structures, creating distinct exhibition spaces throughout. The rooms are distributed across several floors, each offering different sightlines and ways to experience the displayed artwork.
The gallery opened in 1957 and relocated to its current building in 1971, designed by Dutch architect Aldo van Eyck of the Team X group. This move marked the beginning of its most influential period as a center for post-war artistic experimentation.
The gallery served as a meeting place for artists seeking new directions after World War II, hosting international exhibitions that shaped local art dialogue. Visitors could encounter works by pioneers like Josef Beuys and Gerhard Richter, making it a hub where avant-garde ideas were discussed and tested.
The gallery sits on Mutter-Ey-Strasse in the Altstadt district and is accessed through interconnected levels requiring visitors to navigate stairs. Planning to spend time moving between floors helps you discover all exhibition areas without feeling rushed.
The building was intentionally designed with minimal exterior openings, creating an inward-focused environment that directs attention toward the displayed works. This architectural choice makes the interior structure itself an integral part of the viewing experience.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
