MUNICH.- The Free State of Bavaria and Haus der Kunst announced the Alexander Tutsek-Stiftung as a new partner and major supporter of Haus der Kunst. An annual contribution in the mid-six figures has been committed for a period of three years, and may be extended to five years. The foundation intends this fixed amount to promote additional enticing individual projects. The commitment of this crucial and sustained annual support reflects the foundation's goal to strengthen Haus der Kunst's artistic, public, and educational programs.

Dr. Ludwig Spaenle, the State Minister of Education and Culture, Science and Art, and Chairman of Haus der Kunst's Supervisory Board, emphasizes: "The commitment of Dr. Eva-Maria Fahrner-Tutsek is paradigmatic in terms of civic engagement in Bavaria. Such devotion to supporting the Arts is an incredibly important factor for our country. This outstanding cultural patronage will help us significantly to continue to lead this worldwide renowned institution on the highest level."

Founded by Alexander Tutsek and Dr. Eva-Maria Fahrner-Tutsek as a non-profit foundation in December 2000, the Alexander Tutsek-Stiftung promotes the arts and sciences. Their collection activities focus on presenting the diversity of contemporary artistic expression in the mediums of glass and photography. A second emphasis is on the advancement of research in the engineering sciences in the fields of glass, ceramics, rocks and soils within the engineering sciences. The foundation headquarters are housed in a former artist's studio located in an Art Nouveau villa in Munich-Schwabing, where exhibitions devoted to innovative themes are regularly presented.

Reflecting her decision to support Haus der Kunst, Dr. Eva-Maria Fahrner-Tutsek, Chairwoman of the Foundation, says: „Based on its exceptional work in the last years, Haus der Kunst has earned an outstanding reputation as one of the leading cultural centers in the world of contemporary art. Our support is designed to enable Haus der Kunst to further exploit and expand its innovative approach. The funds provided by us are dedicated exclusively to the artistic program including public and educational programs, as well as the research activities. I am delighted that our foundation will contribute to the continued success of Haus der Kunst in the coming years."

This partnership with the Alexander Tutsek-Stiftung continues the tradition of public and private support of the museum over the last twenty-five years. In 2015 the German Bundestag pledged 20 million euros in addition to the 58 million euros already committed by the State of Bavaria for the upcoming renovation of Haus der Kunst by David Chipperfield Architects.

As Okwui Enwezor, director of Haus der Kunst comments "We are proud, as we embark on a new path into the future, that Alexander Tutsek-Stiftung with the Bavarian State and the Friends of Haus der Kunst, will provide an additional pillar that further enhances our ability to offer strong programs to our diverse and devoted audience in Munich. At a time of exciting transformation in Haus der Kunst we are immensely grateful for this major support which exemplifies the kind of civic philanthropic leadership that sustains museums and advances the cause of contemporary culture."

Under the banner of "Renovate/Innovate" Haus der Kunst is currently undergoing the planning phase of the comprehensive renovation, and complete technical upgrade of its 24,000 square meters facility. The renovation undertaken by David Chipperfield Architects will include the integration of the building's west wing, thereby increasing the overall programmable space to approximately 8,000 square meters. This will provide the opportunity to further develop and expand the building's use and the institution's program, thereby increasing its regional, national and international appeal. In addition the museum has engaged AEA Consulting to produce a feasibility study and strategic plan for the future Haus der Kunst.