Benita von Maltzahn, Head of Society and Culture at Volkswagen Group, offers her congratulations: ‘The Kunsthalle Emden's 40-year history reflects a vibrant and successful legacy as a museum, as well as a cultural influence that extends far beyond the region. Our support for the 'Volkswagen Group Art4All — Tide Tied' project demonstrates our commitment to making art more accessible and our connection to our plant in Emden.‘
Ina Grätz, co-director of the Kunsthalle Emden, emphasizes, ‘For centuries, the lives of people on the East Frisian North Sea coast have been shaped by the tides. Thanks to the generous support of the Volkswagen Group for the innovative project, "Volkswagen Group Art4All – Tide Tied," we are delighted to be the first museum to offer our guests an experience based on this natural rhythm.’
In the frame of the ‘Volkswagen Group Art4All’ initiative, the Volkswagen Group allows its cultural partners to offer programs with free or discounted admission to exhibitions and collections, as well as free educational programs and events. These partnerships aim to make art and culture more accessible. In 2025 alone, 400,000 visitors took advantage of these offerings.
The Volkswagen Group's commitment to culture is also a reflection of its connection to the Emden facility. Volkswagen has manufactured vehicles here for the group for more than six decades. With over 7,700 employees, the plant is a central pillar of the global production network and a key location for electric mobility. Currently, the ID.4, ID.7, and ID.7 Tourer models are produced here. Volkswagen Emden has supported the Kunsthalle Emden with mobility solutions for many years. At present, the museum team is provided with an ID.BUZZ to meet their different transportation needs.
‘What began as Henri and Eske Nannen's passion project has become an integral part of Emden's history. The Kunsthalle Emden touches, moves, and inspires generation after generation. For us here in Emden, it is far more than a decades-long partnership. It represents our deep connection to the city and its people, as well as our belief that art broadens horizons, fosters solidarity, and strengthens our region,’ emphasizes Enno Fehse, Plant Manager for Volkswagen in Emden.
The Kunsthalle Emden
The Kunsthalle Emden opened 40 years ago. It began with the idea of making Henri Nannen’s art collection accessible to the public. Driven by the passion and visionary commitment of Henri and Eske Nannen, the Kunsthalle Emden was founded and has since become one of the most important art museums in northern Germany, earning an international reputation. The new exhibition, "Pictures We Love", showcases the museum's collection and highlights significant themes in 20th-century art history through selected works including notable pieces by Franz Marc and August Macke. The exhibition offers visitors a multifaceted exploration of influential art movements since the modern era.
The Kunsthalle is open Tuesday through Sunday, as well as on holidays, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will also be special opening hours for ‘Volkswagen Group Art4All – Tide Tied’ on days with high tide from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with free admission (May 10 through October 23, 2026). For more information, visit www.kunsthalle-emden.de/volkswagengroupart4alltidetied.
The Volkswagen Group's Cultural Engagement program supports initiatives that provide cultural education and opportunities for participation to a wide range of people. The Group works closely with international arts and culture institutions and stakeholders. Through these collaborations, the Volkswagen Group enables the general public to engage with a diverse array of creative ideas and works. The program paves the way for inspiring cultural projects around the world and supports organizations that contribute to diversity of our cultural landscape. By promoting culture and the arts, Volkswagen is taking responsibility for the future.