The Art Collections of Chemnitz have announced they will receive a significant donation of 42 artworks from the renowned Gerlinger Collection, featuring major works by prominent German Expressionist artists. The donated pieces include central works by members of the influential Die Brücke (The Bridge) artist group, specifically Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, Erich Heckel, and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. This substantial gift represents one of the most important acquisitions for the museum in recent years.

General Director Florence Thurmes described the donation as extraordinary good fortune and an exceptional gesture of generosity. The breadth of the donation encompasses various artistic mediums, ranging from oil paintings and watercolors to drawings, prints, and sculptures. This diverse collection will significantly enhance the museum's existing holdings of German Expressionist art and provide visitors with a comprehensive view of this important artistic movement.

The newly acquired works will be showcased in a special exhibition running from October 18 through February 1 at the Art Collections' main location at Theaterplatz. A portion of the donation is specifically designated for the newly opened Karl Schmidt-Rottluff House, which launched this spring as a dedicated space honoring the Chemnitz-born artist. This strategic placement will allow the museum to create meaningful connections between the artist's life, work, and legacy.

The Gerlinger Collection is recognized as one of Germany's most significant private collections, particularly focusing on works by members of Die Brücke artist group. For decades, a large portion of the collection was displayed at the Moritzburg Art Museum in Halle. However, following a dispute in 2016, collector Hermann Gerlinger withdrew his collection from the museum, leading to its relocation and eventual donation to Chemnitz.

Among the standout pieces coming to Chemnitz is Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's painting "Two Men," which museum officials describe as a tremendous enrichment to their collection's historical narrative. Another highlighted work is Karl Schmidt-Rottluff's "You and I," a double portrait of the artist and his wife created in 1919, the year of their marriage. This intimate work provides insight into both the artist's personal life and his artistic development during a crucial period in German art history.

The donation comes at a particularly meaningful time for Chemnitz, as the city serves as the European Capital of Culture for 2025. This prestigious designation has brought increased attention to the city's cultural institutions and programming. The addition of these significant Expressionist works will further strengthen Chemnitz's position as an important cultural destination and provide enhanced educational and artistic resources for both residents and visitors throughout the year-long celebration.