Kunsthaus Graz

Kunsthaus Graz

Introduction

The modern art museum / new arts center (Kunsthaus Graz) on the banks of the Mur River is the work of British architect Peter Cook, pieced together from blue plastic glass panels, and affectionately called the “friendly alien.” The surrealistic building located in the city center of Graz forms a striking contrast with the ancient castle with its red spire and the clock tower, making it one of the most iconic and classic sights of Graz.

Kunsthaus Graz is an embodiment and interpretation of Peter Cook’s concept of “bio-morphic architecture.” Its visual contrast and abrupt presence compared to the surrounding traditional buildings have led to the museum being described as the “city monster” or “alien invasion,” while its irregular and avant-garde shape has also earned it nicknames such as the “gilled beast,” “giant bladder,” and “caterpillar.”

The museum began construction in 2000 with an investment of approximately 23 million pounds and was completed and opened to the public in 2003. The entire structure is divided into five parts: the central protruding part is called the “Belly” (stomach); the roof resembling heart vessels is named the “Nozzles” (nozzles); the columnar structures on the roof serve as a viewing lounge Sushi-Bar, also known as the “Needle” (needle); the ground support elements are called the “Pins” (pegs); and the final section is the entrance and ticket office — the only part that was renovated from an 1842 historic building, where you can still see the exquisite cast steel decorations. This area also houses a bookstore and a gift shop. The ground floor exhibition hall has three levels, with the main exhibition space located on the rooftop level. The entire hall features a column-free design, and the required natural light is provided by 15 Nozzles extending from the roof. Inside the hall, there is a mobile ramp that gently carries visitors down into the “Belly” exhibition area, creating a unique and theatrical effect of being engulfed by art.

Enquiry phone:

0043-316-80179200

Ticket price:

Adults: €6; groups of 7 or more: €4.5; student tickets: €2.5.

Opening hours:

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00–18:00; Thursday 10:00–20:00. Closed on Mondays and Christmas Day.

Graz, Austria