The museum is internationally acclaimed for holding the world’s largest collection of works by the Blue Rider (“Der Blaue Reiter”), one of the most important collectives of avant-garde artists in the early twentieth century. This reputation was largely established through a major donation in 1957 from Blue Rider member Gabriele Münter, who gifted over 1,000 works by herself, her former companion Wassily Kandinsky as well as further fellow members of the Blue Rider and other artists in the collective’s orbit. The museum’s collection also spans 19th-century art, classical modernism, post-war modernism, and contemporary art. A diverse and ambitious program of exhibitions, education, and events complements its important collections.

As a municipal museum, the Lenbachhaus is committed to democratic principles. Therefore, our programming and work methods are geared towards creating a place of dialogue. We are dedicated to our diverse local, regional and international audiences. The Blue Rider’s credo informs our understanding of art: “The whole body of work we call art knows neither borders nor nations but only humanity.”