Leipzig, Germany

Welcome to Leipzig! A city steeped in history and bursting with creative energy, Leipzig is an enchanting destination for artists in residency. Known for its classical music heritage, Leipzig has beautifully transitioned into a modern-day art haven, offering a wealth of opportunities for artists to immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural scene. This guide aims to navigate you through the city’s art supply stores, galleries, museums, and much more, ensuring your artistic journey in Leipzig is as enriching as it is inspiring.

Art Supply Shops

• Gerstaecker: The largest art supply store in Leipzig, offering a wide range of materials for all types of artists.
• Boesner: Known for its extensive selection of fine arts supplies and professional artist materials.
• Kunstpark: A favorite among local artists for its variety of art supplies and tools.
• Modulor: Perfect for those looking for specialty papers and unique materials.

Art Galleries

• Galerie für Zeitgenössische Kunst (GfZK): Focuses on contemporary art and social issues.
• Lindenau-Museum: Known for its collection of Italian Renaissance paintings and temporary modern exhibitions.
• Eigen + Art: A pivotal space for emerging and established contemporary artists.

Museums

• Museum der bildenden Künste: Houses a vast collection of European paintings from the Middle Ages to the modern era.
• Bach Museum: Dedicated to the life and work of Johann Sebastian Bach, with a focus on his Leipzig years.
• GRASSI Museum of Applied Arts: One of the leading museums of its kind, featuring art and craft from ancient times to the present day.

Open Studio Events

• Spinnerei Rundgang: A biannual event where artists from the Spinnerei art complex open their studios to the public.
• Westwerk Week: An annual festival showcasing the vibrant community of artists and creatives in the Westwerk area.

Art Gallery Opening Events

• For the latest gallery openings and cultural events, keep an eye on Leipzig's cultural calendar and websites like Leipzig Leben and Kreuzer Leipzig, which are great resources for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

Historical Art Venues

• Alte Handelsbörse: A beautiful Baroque building that hosts concerts, readings, and exhibitions.
• Mendelssohn-Haus: The former residence of Felix Mendelssohn, now a museum and a venue for chamber music.

Travel Tips

• Transportation: Leipzig boasts an excellent public transport network. While Uber is not available, local taxi apps like Sixt or FreeNow are reliable alternatives for getting around. For trams and other public transportation, consider using the LeipzigMOVE app or purchasing a monthly pass for unlimited travel.
• Cycling: Leipzig is bike-friendly, with many routes and rental shops, making it an ideal way to explore the city. Biking is not only eco-friendly but also a great way to discover hidden gems throughout Leipzig.
• Stay Connected: Utilize Leipzig’s cultural guides and apps to stay informed about events, exhibitions, and artists’ gatherings throughout the city. Being informed will help you make the most of your stay in this vibrant city.

Other Tips for Artists

• Connect with the Local Scene: Attend workshops, talks, and exhibitions to immerse yourself in Leipzig’s art community.
• Explore Artist Residencies: Leipzig offers various residency programs, such as the International Leipzig Residency Program, providing artists the space and time to create.
• Creative Spaces: Don't miss visiting creative hubs like the Spinnerei and Tapetenwerk, where you can meet local artists and see their work up close.