What’s On in Germany Right Now: Summer Exhibitions

Germany’s art scene pulses with a vibrant fusion of tradition and innovation, where the precision of realism and hyperrealism in painting stands as a testament to its cultural heritage. As of today, with summer at its peak, galleries across the nation are showcasing exhibitions that celebrate these meticulous styles, reflecting a deep appreciation for detail and narrative depth. From Essen to Frankfurt to Cologne, Galerie Klose, E30 Gallery, and ART Galerie 7 present standout shows that capture the essence of contemporary German art. Below, we explore these exhibitions, their featured artists, and the unique perspectives they bring to the forefront.

Galerie Klose (https://www.galerie-klose.de), Essen

“Taste it!” (11. Juli – 16. August 2025)

At Galerie Klose in Essen, the exhibition Taste it! showcases the diverse talents of German artists Carina Klaus, Wolfgang Kleber, Meli Kuhn, Philipp Liehr, Esther Miranda, Louis Ortwein, Andreas Orosz, Olli Rose, Marina Sailer, Ansgar Skiba, Veronika Spleiss, Jessi Strixner, Jörg W. Schirmer, Charlotte Trossbach, and Jesus de la Torre, running from July 11 to August 16, 2025. Founded in 1992, Galerie Klose is celebrated for its dedication to contemporary figurative painting and sculpture, blending established names with emerging voices. Taste it! offers a sensory exploration of German artistic identity, with Carina Klaus renowned for her hyperrealistic still lifes that capture the texture of everyday objects, and Philipp Liehr’s detailed portraits reflecting emotional depth. Wolfgang Kleber’s abstract-leaning realism and Jörg W. Schirmer’s bold figurative works, often seen at events like C.A.R. Contemporary Art Ruhr, add dynamic contrast. Marina Sailer’s expressive figures and Jessi Strixner’s meticulous compositions enhance the show’s richness, while Esther Miranda and Jesus de la Torre bring international influences with their vibrant, realist narratives. This collective effort underscores Galerie Klose’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of figuration with precision and innovation.

E30 Gallery (https://e30gallery.com), Frankfurt

“Fragments of Now” (28. Juni – 17. August 2025)

In Frankfurt’s Nordend district, E30 Gallery presents Fragments of Now, running from June 28 to August 17, 2025, featuring Raphael Paulun, Maria Leisner, Mollie Campbell, and Lukas Zimmermann. Since its inception in 2021, E30 Gallery has become a nurturing ground for young and established artists, fostering a community-driven space. Fragments of Now examines the fragmented nature of contemporary life, with Raphael Paulun’s hyperrealist urban scenes offering a stark, detailed commentary on city life, and Maria Leisner’s works blending realism with subtle abstract elements for emotional resonance. Mollie Campbell’s textured explorations delve into memory and identity, while Lukas Zimmermann’s introspective narratives, marked by fine detail, invite deep reflection. This exhibition highlights the gallery’s focus on sensory, hyperrealist experiences, resonating with Germany’s evolving art landscape as it unfolds this summer.

ART Galerie 7 (https://www.artgalerie7.de), Cologne

“Ins Blaue hinein…” (11. Juli – 23. August 2025)

Cologne’s ART Galerie 7, under Meike Knüppe’s direction, hosts Ins Blaue hinein… (Into the Blue…), running from July 11 to August 23, 2025, and currently on view, featuring Sigrid von Lintig, Folkert Rasch, and Tobias Stutz. Renowned for its emphasis on international contemporary art, the gallery champions painting and sculpture with a realist edge. Sigrid von Lintig’s ethereal, hyperrealist landscapes evoke a timeless quality, often exploring nature’s serenity with meticulous detail. Folkert Rasch, known for his bold figurative works and presence at galleries like Bengelsträter, infuses the show with dynamic realism, while Tobias Stutz’s innovative approach blends realist precision with abstract undertones, creating a poetic dialogue. Ins Blaue hinein… immerses viewers in a blue-hued reverie, where hyperrealist techniques amplify emotional and visual impact, making it a highlight of Cologne’s summer art scene.

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