Wolfgang Beltracchi: Hamburg – Myths and Stories at the Gateway to the World
An artist who kept the art world on edge for decades—now presenting his own, distinctive works in Hamburg. Wolfgang Beltracchi is one of the best-known and most controversial artists of our time. Having once been a master of forgery, he now creates works of extraordinary power and originality under his own name. At the Barlach Halle K, he delves into the myths and stories of Hamburg—a city that has long viewed itself as a gateway to the world: a place defined by its harbor, trade, longing, and new beginnings.
Your chance to experience Beltracchi’s original work
This exhibition does not feature copies, but rather original works by Wolfgang Beltracchi himself. It is a rare opportunity to experience firsthand the artistic signature, vibrant use of color, and visionary visual language of an exceptional artist—a man who, perhaps like no other, both polarizes and fascinates. Tickets are available now via Eventim, and will also be sold at the door starting from the exhibition’s opening on November 13 (12 euros; 10 euros for concessions; free for children under 8).
About Wolfgang Beltracchi
Born in Höxter in 1951, Wolfgang Beltracchi is considered one of the most accomplished artists of his generation—as well as arguably the most successful art forger in history. For decades, he created original, previously non-existent works in the style of great masters such as Max Ernst or Heinrich Campendonk, introducing them to the market as "lost" originals. The fraud was uncovered in 2011, and Beltracchi was sentenced to a term in prison. Since his release, he has worked exclusively under his own name—proving with every new piece that his extraordinary talent extends far beyond the realm of forgery. Today, he is one of the most sought-after contemporary artists, with his life and work garnering significant international attention—not least due to the documentary "Beltracchi: The Art of Forgery."
About Barlach Halle K
Barlach Halle K is situated in the heart of Hamburg’s art scene—right on the "art mile" between the Deichtorhallen and the Hamburger Kunsthalle, and in the immediate vicinity of the Kunstverein. The "K" in its name stands for *Kunst*, *Kultur*, and *Kommunikation* (art, culture, and communication). For years, this former gallery for contemporary art on Klosterwall has hosted high-caliber exhibitions and cultural events—providing the ideal setting for an encounter with the work of Wolfgang Beltracchi.
