Museum Ludwig, Cologne

Let me be clear, I entered this museum with a really negative attitude - I'm afraid that I very much took the view that modern art is all a bit of a nonsense. I spent around 3 hours at the museum and I came out a changed man. I can't explain the effect of some of the pieces on me, who can really, but I was genuinely amazed. In addition, there was a large video exhibition which was very accessible. All in all, the content was sensational and laid out in an incredibly impressive manner including some super large rooms which help you have the space to just think. The architecture of the building alone is breath taking especially the main exhibition room which is simply huge. In terms of the basics, the location is obviously ideal given next to station and Cathedral. It was very clean. Lots of toilets and lots of lifts and escalators for this with limited mobility. Lots of space between and around each piece so everyone has the space needed to appreciate the art. The staff were extremely polite and helpful. Importantly to me there was no art-world stuffiness - the staff are relaxed, it is no problem to just sit down in a room or near a piece and spend the time required in a relaxed and comfortable manner to truly appreciate the work. It was a simply fantastic to feel so relaxed and at ease which really really enabled me to get everything I could from the art. Oh yes, and if you are a social pariah like me and still enjoy the occasional cigarette, there is even an outdoor area within the museum to enable you to have a ciggy without having to go all the way back to the entrance. That area is a roof top terrace on the third floor with a wonderful view of the Cathedral from a perfect location for photography. The fact that they have this facility at all let alone the fact that it is such a pleasant area perhaps reflects the attitude of the museum perfectly. Simply put : visit this museum. I hope it acts as such a game changer for you as it was for me.

Great museum. The art here is really not my taste, however, I’m sure some art guru will find more value in the art than I did. I’d still recommend this museum to others.