A unique and versatile art and cultural landscape
The Niederrhein is defined by a remarkable blend of historic heritage and contemporary creativity. How did the ancient Romans live? This era is brought back to life in a variety of ways throughout the Niederrhein. The spirit of Joseph Beuys, one of the 20th century’s great artistic icons, can still be felt and seen everywhere. Fans of architecture and painting, traditional crafts and striking visual art will find endless inspiration here, both in the towns and in the surrounding countryside.
Thomas Baumgärtel - Niederrheintour 2026
Freedom for Art: 40 Art Installations, 40 Art Locations, 40 Years of BANANENSPRAYER
In 2026, the Niederrhein will become a vibrant stage for art: Thomas Baumgärtel, known worldwide as the “Banana Sprayer,” will celebrate the 40th anniversary of his spray-painted banana with a massive art project. Under the motto “Freedom for Art,” the artist—who hails from Rheinberg in the Lower Rhine region—is transforming his home region into a unique exhibition landscape, thereby creating one of the most spectacular cultural events of the year.
A Celebration of Art
40 Museen, Galerien und kulturelle Institutionen präsentieren von Mai bis Juli 2026 parallel 40 Werkgruppen aus vier Jahrzehnten seines Schaffens. Jede Station zeigt eine andere Facette des Künstlers und macht sichtbar, wie vielseitig und umfangreich sein Werk ist.
Der Auftakt der Tour findet am 8. Mai 2026 im Niederrheinischen Museum Kevelaer statt und markiert den Start eines besonderen Ausstellungsformats:
40 groups of works – 40 locations – 40 years of art history.
At each of the 40 exhibition venues, visitors can expect something different: various groups of works, themes, materials, and artistic approaches. This creates an extraordinary journey of discovery through Baumgärtel’s body of work—and, at the same time, through the cultural landscape of the Lower Rhine region.
Step by step, from museum to museum, a comprehensive picture of the artist—who was born in the Lower Rhine region—emerges.
An artistic highlight that puts the Lower Rhine on the map far beyond the region.
