Volkswagen and the arts

For five years now, Volkswagen Group of America has been in partnership with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and MoMA PS1.

Among the offerings supported by Volkswagen Group of America are solo exhibitions featuring the work of Francis Alÿs, Sigmar Polke and Björk; group shows like the project EXPO:1 along with concerts and the special performance of Kraftwerk with “Der Katalog: 12345678”.

A special concern of the collaboration was focused on educational work. As the lead partner of MoMA´s educational programme, Volkswagen Group of America was crucial in enabling the expansion of online courses and of museum offerings addressing the interaction with art for all ages.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of people interested in the arts all over the world are using this chance to benefit from the museum’s online seminars.

Educational programmes in the arts need particular attention because not only do they make possible an encounter with culture, but they also deepen an understanding of creative processes and encourage individual artistic action. Volkswagen especially empowers those projects oriented towards new technological options and changing social needs.

This year’s highlight of the partnership is the sponsorship of the exhibition Forty, which will be on view at MoMA PS1 until 28 August.

This anniversary show focuses on 40 artists whose work was shown in the early years of MoMA PS1 and in its landmark inaugural exhibition Rooms.

Then and now this renowned museum has been a showcase and creative venue for experimental art.

It is among the oldest and largest non-profit contemporary art institutions within the US.

Internationally, MoMA PS1 plays a leading role in furthering young artists and innovative forms of the creative spirit.

“The Museum of Modern Art and MoMA PS1 are grateful to Volkswagen for their dedication and support in helping us realise key educational initiatives and important exhibi- tions over the last five years,” says MoMA´s director, Glenn D Lowry.

Throughout the decades, both MoMA and MoMA PS1 have demonstrated remarkable innovative strength and quality. They developed into globally leading explorers and trailblazers for modern and contemporary art. Volkswagen Group of America shares the commitment to enable as many people as possible to start a discourse with the arts and with culture. The partnership between Volkswagen Group of America and MoMA and MoMA PS1 is a key pillar within the international commitment to the arts and culture of Volkswagen Group. Beyond that, the company also supports arts initiatives in China, works together with the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and is a partner of the Nationalgalerie – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin. This engagement reflects the social responsibility upheld by the Volkswagen Group. A vital part of the philosophy is the understanding that the arts and culture are essential elements in sustaining a vibrant society.