KW Institute for Contemporary Art occupies a former margarine factory at Auguststraße 69 in Mitte. Its changing exhibitions fill four floors, with spacious rooms and layouts that give installations, video and photography room to breathe. The programme brings together emerging and established artists, often addressing political and social questions. KW also launched the Berlin Biennale in 1996 and remains one of its venues. After exploring the galleries, take a break in the leafy courtyard, which has a café. Check the current exhibition programme before you go, since the shows vary in subject and appeal.
A former factory for changing art
KW occupies a former margarine factory at Auguststraße 69 in Mitte. The building’s industrial past gives way to simple gallery rooms and spacious areas for installations. Exhibitions change, so there is no permanent collection to plan around. Instead, the programme brings together artists at different stages of their careers, from emerging and rediscovered names to established figures.
The four-floor layout is part of the visit. Different exhibition spaces have distinct arrangements, and large-scale works can make use of the generous rooms. Video, photography and mixed-media installations are among the forms shown here. Check the programme before you arrive to see what is on and decide whether the current exhibitions suit your interests.
Art that takes on current questions
KW’s programme often addresses political and social subjects through contemporary art. Past exhibitions have included work about torture at Abu Ghraib and attitudes toward Indigenous people. These subjects can make a visit challenging as well as thought-provoking; allow time to spend with the works rather than hurrying from floor to floor.
The institute’s activities extend beyond exhibitions. Its programme includes talks, workshops, screenings and performances, and the building has studios for resident artists. Events and exhibition openings can change the feel of a visit, so check the current programme if you are planning around a particular format.
KW and the Berlin Biennale
KW launched the Berlin Biennale in 1996 and continues to host Biennale presentations. During these events, the institute is one part of a wider art programme, and special openings may draw more people than a regular gallery visit. The changing exhibitions and event programme make KW a place to return to when the work on show changes.
The entrance leads toward a leafy courtyard, a quieter spot between the galleries. There is also a café, where you can pause after seeing the exhibitions. Free admission is listed for Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm and the first Sunday of each month; confirm current arrangements before you go.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is KW Institute for Contemporary Art?
It is at Auguststraße 69 in Berlin’s Mitte district.
Does KW have a permanent collection?
No. The institute presents changing exhibitions, so check its current programme before visiting.
When is admission free?
Free admission is listed for Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm and the first Sunday of the month. Confirm the current details before setting out.
How much time should I allow for a visit?
The galleries span four floors. The available information does not specify a typical visit length, so allow time to explore at your own pace.
Is there a café at KW?
Yes. The institute has a café in its courtyard.
