Each July, the selection of works is being rearranged, according to a different key word. While some pieces simply move to new positions within the space, most return to storage. Works from the depot are frequently hung next to recent acquisitions. In this, Erika Hoffmann creates new relationships in unexpected contexts and sets out to recognize unexpected meaning between works of distinct generations and mediums.
Current Installation
The installation "ailleurs" includes work by Carla Accardi, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Monica Bonvicini, Richard Deacon, Rineke Dijkstra, Carrol Dunham, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Katharina Grosse, Fang Lijun, Georg Herold, Jannis Kounellis, Zuzanna Janin, Hubert Kiecol, Silke Otto-Knapp, Joachim Koester, Ad Reinhardt, Rivka Rinn, Thomas Ruff, Anri Sala, Eran Schaerf, Marike Schuurman, Jochen Seidel, Ettore Spalletti, Cy Twombly, Francesca Woodman and others.
The Space
The Sammlung Hoffmann occupies 1,500 sqm over the third and fourth floors of a brick building constructed by H. Mehlich toward the end of the 19th century. The building originally housed a factory that manufactured sewing machines, later bicycle chains, and then the transport company Martin, as well as various other businesses. Between the end of the second World War and 1993 the premises were used primarily for the manufacturing and repair of medical devices. In 1994 the Hoffmann family acquired the property and created a peaceful microcosm uniting Sophien- and Gipsstraße, replete with apartments, offices and Barcomi’s Deli.