The Neuer Berliner Kunstverein was founded in 1969 on the initiative of a group of Berlin citizens. Since then, its aim has been to introduce contemporary fine arts to a wide public by means of exhibitions and other forms of presentation. After the reunification of the two parts of the city, these tasks have extended to cover the whole of Berlin, and the NBK is seeking to make its own contribution as eastern and western districts gradually grow together in the field of culture.
 
One of the Kunstverein's priorities is the organisation of exhibitions of contemporary art; since 1994, these have been held at the new location in Berlin-Mitte. High quality catalogues are published in conjunction with all the exhibitions, informing the reader about the background and references to the works of art, artists and themes which we present. In addition, in 1970 the NBK founded the first Artothek (Art Library) in Germany, which lends works of art to the inhabitants of Berlin free of charge.This department also includes the Artothek mobil, which compiles and arranges thematic exhibitions mainly for schools. The Video-Forum, which has existed since 1972, comprises a comprehensive collection of international artists' videotapes which may be shown to interested viewers on request. The collection also includes own productions. A CD-ROM-Collection has been started.
 
A matter of great importance to the NBK is its function as a mediator between contemporary art and the public. For this reason, the NBK does not only organise exhibitions, but also numerous supplementary programmes, such as the weekly Treffpunkt NBK (Meeting Point NBK), which offers lectures, discussions with artists, performances and other art related activities.
 
Director: Alexander Tolnay
Managing director and head of the NBK Video Forum Kathrin Becker
> Neuer Berliner Kunstverein (NBK)