When Thuringia buys art: "Out of the box" - Thuringia's Parliament Unveils 77 New Artworks in Bold Exhibition

A new exhibition showcasing 77 recently acquired artworks has opened at Thuringia’s state parliament. The display is part of the Out of the Box series and will remain on view until January 11, 2026. Among the featured pieces are works by 46 contemporary artists with ties to the region. The state of Thuringia deliberately purchased the 77 pieces in 2024 to expand its official art collection. These acquisitions form part of a broader investment—between 2020 and 2024, over €1 million was spent on works by around 150 artists. Last year alone, the state added 243 artworks with regional connections, spending roughly €269,000.

The exhibition presents a variety of media, from paintings and sculptures to installations. Visitors can see a pencil drawing by Stefan Leyh alongside a video by Swedish artist Nina Lundström, who now lives in Thuringia. The collection itself has grown significantly, now holding at least 10,000 works.

By acquiring these pieces, the state aims to support local artists while reinforcing Thuringia’s cultural identity. The exhibition runs until early 2026, offering the public a chance to explore contemporary art from the region. The state’s ongoing purchases ensure that Thuringia’s cultural heritage continues to expand. All 77 works will remain part of the permanent collection after the show closes.