Name: From Odesa to Berlin: European Painting of the 16th to 19th Century
Start: 2025-01-24
End: 2025-06-22
Location: Gemäldegalerie

An exhibition rooted in history and humanity

From Odesa to Berlin: European Painting of the 16th
to 19th Century is a remarkable exhibition
bringing together 60 paintings from Ukraine's Odesa Museum of Western and
Eastern Art and 25 works from Berlin's own collections. Taking place at
the prestigious Gemäldegalerie from 24 January to 22 June 2025, it tells
a profound story of resilience and cultural solidarity amid conflict,
offering a unique opportunity to see European art history through a new lens.

Francesco Granacci, Thronende Madonna mit Kind und Johannesknaben, Detail, 1519

Odesa to Berlin at a glance

The collaboration behind this exhibition was born of necessity and shared heritage. When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in early 2022, curators at the Odesa Museum acted swiftly to safeguard their nation's artistic treasures, relocating dozens of valuable paintings to secure locations within Ukraine. Now, through this joint effort with Berlin's State Museums, 74 carefully chosen masterpieces from European painters of the 16th to 19th centuries will be on display at Berlin's Gemäldegalerie. With artworks by renowned artists such as Andreas Achenbach, Francesco Granacci and Frans Hals, the exhibition highlights the powerful cultural links between Ukraine and Western Europe.

From Odesa to Berlin highlights

Masterpieces from Odesa: Featuring 60 iconic works that rarely leave Ukraine, including pieces by major European artists from the 16th to the 19th centuries.
Berlin-Odesa artistic dialogue: The exhibition interweaves these works with 25 pieces from Berlin's collection, creating a compelling visual conversation that sheds light on shared themes and artistic developments.
Cultural solidarity: The exhibition is a testament to the resilience of cultural heritage, bringing awareness to the vulnerability of art in conflict zones.
Nine thematic sections: Explore the vast themes of European art history, from landscapes and still lifes to powerful historical narratives and portraiture.
Expert curation: Led by Sabine Lata and Dagmar Hirschfelder, and supported by skilled restoration teams, this exhibition is a meticulously curated experience designed to educate and inspire.

Discover From Odesa to Berlin

The Odesa Museum of Western and Eastern Art was founded in 1924. It holds a vast collection reflecting both Western and Eastern influences, attesting to Ukraine's rich and unique cultural identity. The inclusion of the Berlin artworks enriches this exhibition, inviting viewers to witness the similarities and contrasts between art that developed across different parts of Europe over centuries. This exhibition sheds light on lesser-known treasures and the profound ties that bind Ukrainian culture to Western Europe.

From Odesa to Berlin stands as an expression of solidarity with Ukraine, a country whose cultural identity and heritage are threatened. It emphasises the value of art preservation, especially in times of conflict, while fostering greater cultural sensitivity and understanding across borders.

Top tips for From Odesa to Berlin

Tickets can be purchased online through the website of the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin. Discounts are available for students, seniors and visitors with disabilities.
Check for lectures or guided tours available on select dates for added context.
Entry is free for visitors up to 18 years of age. For a broader experience, a special ticket grants access to all Kulturforum exhibitions.
Located in Berlin's Kulturforum, the Gemäldegalerie is easily accessible by public transport. From Berlin Hauptbahnhof, take the U2 underground line or bus 200, both of which stop nearby. Limited parking is available.
The Gemäldegalerie is partly accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. Check with the gallery for further details.