Hundreds of artists’ studios and eleven galleries, plus resident workshops, architects, designers, jewellery and fashion producers, “boesner” the artist’s suppliers, the “Spinnwerk” drama workshop, an international dance and choreography centre, printing workshops, the “Lubok” art books, the “LuRu” cinema, and, not least, the non-commercial HALLE 14 initiative, to name but a few. This is a factory complex that, by the beginning of the 20th century, had become the biggest cotton spinnery in continental Europe. At the beginning of the 21st century, it has become one of Europe’s most interesting production and exhibition spaces for modern art and culture.

It took more than active planning to bring about what has happened in the Spinnerei since the early 1990s, when the first artists set up their studios here. Courage, a great deal of interest in art and a willingness to experiment on the part of many people (and, since 2001, an investment company and an executive board which help to support initiatives and make considered long-term decisions on the gradual extension and conversion of the building) – all these went towards making the Spinnerei what it is today.

Painters and photographers, sculptors and media and concept artists can work undisturbed in their studios here, while the exhibition spaces are a place for visitors to look at and discuss modern art and maybe purchase an artwork. On a weekend three times a year, a Tour of the Spinnerei galleries takes place, with new exhibitions and events – but the galleries, HALLE 14, the workshops and stores and all the different firms and creative enterprises will be pleased to welcome you all year round!

This site will give you an idea of what happens at the Spinnerei, plus information on current exhibitions and events. It also contains contact details for all artistic and creative activities, together with opening times and links to individual websites. Also, new to the site: our online Spinnerei store.

Welcome!