At Barer Str. 40 in Munich’s Kunstareal, the Pinakothek der Moderne brings modern art, works on paper, architecture and design together in one museum. Its four collections range from graphic art and product design to paintings and contemporary works, with artists such as Picasso and Dalí among the names represented. The spacious galleries also place works from different periods and media alongside one another. The scale can feel daunting, so allow at least two to three hours and choose which of the four collections you most want to explore.
Four collections in one museum
The Pinakothek der Moderne brings together four independent collections in Munich’s Kunstareal. The Sammlung Moderne Kunst presents modern and contemporary art. Die Neue Sammlung focuses on design, the Architekturmuseum belongs to the Technical University of Munich, and the Staatliche Graphische Sammlung holds works on paper, including prints and drawings.
This arrangement makes it easier to plan a visit around your interests. You can spend your time with paintings and sculpture, then move to architecture or design, rather than treating the building as one continuous gallery. The collections include work from different periods and disciplines, and some displays bring pieces from separate centuries into conversation. The design collection is a particular draw for visitors interested in industrial and product design.
Art, design and works on paper
The art collection covers movements from Expressionism and classical modernism to contemporary art. Picasso and Dalí are among the artists represented; other material names Kandinsky, Klee, Beckmann and Warhol. The works span more than paintings, with sculpture, photography and video also included in the museum’s collection and exhibitions.
The graphic collection offers a different way into modern art through prints and drawings. Architecture has its own collection, while Die Neue Sammlung traces design through objects and applied arts. Together, the four areas provide a broad view of creative work across the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Exhibitions can change, so a particular artist or display mentioned in older material may not be on view during your visit.
The building and planning your visit
Designed by Munich architect Stephan Braunfels, the museum opened in 2002. Its glass-and-concrete exterior and broad interior spaces set it apart from the older galleries in the city. A central rotunda connects the building’s four collection areas, and daylight enters the art galleries from above, supported by controlled lighting.
Because there is a lot to see, allow two to three hours and pick a collection to start with. The museum’s app includes themed routes and information on more than 100 objects and over 80 artists, architects and designers, with text, audio and video. Free Wi-Fi is available in the building for using or downloading it. Coffee spots inside provide a place to pause during a longer visit. The supplied information lists a €1 admission fee on Sundays; check the museum’s current ticket details before you go.
FAQ
How long should I spend at the Pinakothek der Moderne?
Allow at least two to three hours. The museum contains four separate collections, so you may want to choose which areas to prioritise.
What can you see at the Pinakothek der Moderne?
Its four collections cover modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and works on paper. Artists represented include Picasso and Dalí.
Is Sunday admission €1?
The supplied information lists Sunday admission at €1. Check the museum’s current ticket details before your visit.
Does the museum have an app?
Yes. The app includes themed routes and information on objects and artists, architects and designers, with text, audio and video. Free Wi-Fi is available in the museum.
