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The exhibition sheds completely new light on the work of August Macke — not only as an Expressionist painter, but also as part of a unique artistic and strategic duo. Over 200 drawings and paintings show how Elisabeth Macke, his “second self,” inspired and organized him and fought tirelessly for the recognition of his work after his early death.

Elisabeth Macke was much more than a muse. She marketed his works, established networks in the arts and business, and thus secured his place in art history. The exhibition presents her work, her contacts, and her decisive role for the first time, based on the museum’s extensive Macke collection, supplemented by selected loans.

The exhibition is more than a retrospective — it is an invitation to experience the dynamic between creative work and strategic thinking. It shows how art and management go hand in hand and invites visitors to become part of this story themselves.

Parallel to the main exhibition, “August and the Circus Horse” – a family exhibition with playful and interactive elements – invites visitors to get creative themselves. Children and adults alike can actively immerse themselves in Macke’s colorful world and discover his art in a sensory, immediate way. Creative workshops invite all age groups to actively engage with Macke’s work. Interactive stations allow visitors to explore his techniques and motifs while becoming creators themselves, thus experiencing art in a personal, sensory way.
The presentation follows an emotional narrative that appeals to everyone. The accessible design ensures that the content is accessible to people with different backgrounds and needs — from easy-to-read language and tactile elements to digital offerings. An audio guide and interactive tours make the visit individual and flexible.

The exhibition focuses on environmentally friendly materials (recycling/upcycling), modular elements for future projects, and energy-efficient technology to protect works and conserve resources.
The exhibition was designed as a special exhibition and required a high degree of adaptability in terms of interior design. Easily removable wall and presentation elements underline the character of the Macke exhibition and can also be reused for future projects. This flexible system combines aesthetics with practical and economic advantages for museum operations.