See eclectic exhibits spanning art, fashion and design at this highly respected museum, housed in an arresting building designed by iconic architect Frank Gehry.
The Marta Herford Museum is the ideal rainy day destination. Wander galleries filled with not only visual art but fashion, design and architecture pieces too. Bring a camera and prepare to take countless photos of the building’s striking exterior and interior. Even if you don’t have time to go into the museum, it is more than worth going to see the building, one of Herford’s most spectacular sights.
The building was designed by architect Frank Gehry, known all over the world for his distinctive designs featuring wavy, wonky, unconventional and unexpected shapes. It opened its doors for the first time in 2005. Over a decade later, the structure is still as impressive as ever.
Look up at the terracotta sections that make up the building and you could easily start to feel dizzy. Sloping in many different directions, the shapes are typical of Gehry’s work. Also very classically Gehry is the metallic roof.
Step inside the museum to marvel at the way it successfully brings together design and art forms not often shown together. Interior design plays an important role, reflecting Herford’s past as a furniture production hub. Discover a permanent collection of around 400 pieces, as well as a regularly rotating lineup of temporary exhibitions.
Visit at the weekend to join one of the guided tours. Whether or not you see it with a guide, be prepared to be impressed by the building’s interior, which contains many striking features. Visit the Kupferbar, or Copper Bar, which is dominated by its eye-catching copper features.
Walk northeast from Herford’s main train station for around 5 minutes to reach the Marta Herford Museum. The museum is open every day except Monday, with extended hours on the first Wednesday of every month. There is an admission charge, but discounts are available for groups and children. Check what is on at the museum before you go. As well as the changing exhibitions, the museum hosts workshops, talks and other events.
