Art in Germany

Art can depict objects, tell stories, evoke feelings or explore social questions. A work does not have to be beautiful or immediately understandable to be seen as art. Visual art includes traditional forms such as painting, graphic art and sculpture. It also includes photography, film, performance, installations, digital works and pieces that combine several forms. Germany has a diverse museum landscape. Public museums collect, preserve, research and display art from different periods and regions. Galleries often represent artists and offer works for sale. Art associations, project spaces and open studios often show new or experimental work and create opportunities to meet locally. Art also exists beyond indoor venues. Monuments, fountains, art integrated into architecture, murals and street art shape streets, squares and railway stations. Artistic work takes time, skill, materials and space. Artists earn income through sales, commissions, teaching, grants or other professions, among other means. Public cultural funding plays an important role in Germany. Depending on their responsibilities, the federal government, federal states and municipalities support museums, projects, artists and arts education. Authors and artists generally decide how their works may be used. Anyone who photographs, publishes, alters or sells art should therefore respect ownership, venue rules and copyright. Art can be approached by looking, asking questions and creating something yourself. Different interpretations are possible, but they should be grounded in the work.