kunsthaus graz

The Kunsthaus hosts the Graz Art Museum, but is better known for its original shape. It is an ultra modern building constructed in the heart of the historical center. Its wavy lines and "glass skin" are in full contrast with the nearby buildings. Although it is a controversial structure it is not something that bothers the eye. It is a symbiotic element between old and new.You can admire the shapes at close range from the street. But also you can see the whole building from the hill with the clock tower, from above. It is an eye catcher.The entrance fee is 9 Euro and for some is a little pricey for what is given in return. Inside you can drink a coffee but the place is also quite expensive.

Peter Cook and Colin Fournier, architects, won a bet when building this incredible building in an historical environment.The site is breathtaking from the ground and hilarious from Gösting castle height

This monstrosity of a building...it looks like a giant black alien beetle that is about to eat the beautiful old town of Graz. What were they thinking to allow this UGLY thing to spoil the site???I am from New York City...and glad its not here!There wasn't much inside...a small exhibit of works by James Benning.

It is said that it is a place for arts but I did not find any. There was a café inside and that was all (which was expensive).

We didn't go inside but Kunsthaus is great to look at from the outside especially from above on the hill. The design is great and well worth looking at.

I'd have to agree with Paige N's review that while this really is an arresting sight when seen from the castle ramparts high above, up close this dramatic arts centre (it does look like a friendly slug) is harder to visualise as it is boxed in by other buildings and its own carpark and the interior, while perfectly pleasant and calm, is not in any way as arresting.

There is no doubt that the architecture of this building is exquisite, however I found the exterior much more impressive than the exhibits showcased inside. The installations were nice, average. Not a very large museum, you can easily tackle everything within a couple hours. It does offer a great view from the top floor, but once again, if you are going for the art, there are certainly better curated museums out there.

EmeraldDiva got it right with the slug instead of an a alien. This building is striking all right but when you've said that, you've just about said it all. I thoroughly believe that to a considerable degree, form should follow function. Which does not rule out fantasy and creativity in doing so. But in the case of the Kunsthaus, the building looks unusual all right and so is highly noticeable, but that's about it, and the exhibitions usually are no really big deal. if something is on that appeals to you, well pay the rather stiff price and go on in and see it. If you don't see the interior, you aren't missing much. I fnd the exhibition spaces run of the mill at best.

A very interesting museum in the hart of Graz. Contemporary arts is not a thing everyone likes, however if you are into that then Kunsthaus is a must see place.

Nice building but had very view exhibits and exhibitions. I was dissapointed. the ticket fee was too high.

I know they call it the "friendly alien", but I think it kind of looks like a slug. Not really my cup of tea but while in Graz it seemed silly not to visit. I am not a fan of modern art, so the exhibitions did not thrill and neither does the architecture. It certainly stands out though, you can't miss it!

How can you not venture into this "obvious" and strange building! If it's winter, there's a great (but not cheap) cafe. There's an interesting (but not cheap) gift shop. . . and the museum itself-- well, not cheap, but if you have the time and are in the mood for modern and contemporary art, go for it!

Being interested in modern architecture this museum was a must. The exhibition on Cultural buildings from Bilbao to Zeche Zollverein was organised very well, visitors got iPads with additional information about the exhibits. The museum was not very crowded on a rainy Sunday morning.

The building is an atraction itself. It is really very beautiful and can be easilly reached from Graz city center (5 minutes walk). There are also trams and bus stops right in front of.When I was visiting only one exibition was open, so I took less than one our to visit. The museum is related to modern art (including architectures pieces and so on), so dont go visit if you´re expecting a "classic museum" with renaiscensse pictures and statues.

I love this museum for its amazing architecture and its high-quality exhibits, always with interesting, progressive content. Go to their website and watch the movie on the original design and development of the building ("A friendly alien"), a great piece of modern architecture.http://www.museum-joanneum.at/de/kunsthaus/das-gebaeude/film-kunsthaus-graz-bix