Museum

Wilhelm Busch - German Museum of Caricature & Drawing

One of Europe's most significant collections of caricatures, along with regularly changing special exhibitions, makes the museum a vibrant hub for the art of drawing.

From Wilhelm Busch to Comics

The collection takes as its starting point the entire body of work by Wilhelm Busch. At the same time, with more than 50,000 works, it traces the history of caricature from 1600 to the present day—and often in a surprisingly timely manner.

On display are works by internationally renowned artists such as Loriot, Jean-Jacques Sempé, William Hogarth, Marie Marcks, and Friedrich Karl Waechter. Comic pioneers like Windsor McCay and illustrators such as Axel Scheffler and Rotraut Susanne Berner are also represented. Regularly changing special exhibitions, for example by Ulli Lust, Anke Feuchtenberger, or Katharina Greve, continually bring fresh perspectives.

Among other things, the museum houses the estate of the British illustrator Ronald Searle, which is further evidence of the collection’s international significance.

Art with Attitude

Cartooning and satire are more than just humor. They reflect social developments, challenge power structures, and get to the heart of complex issues. The museum sees itself as a place for artistic and socio-political dialogue—then as now.

An extensive specialized library containing historical publications complements the collection and makes the institution an important center for research.

More than just exhibitions

The museum is a vibrant gathering place: in addition to the exhibitions, readings, lectures, workshops, and events in the garden invite visitors to participate and explore. Children discover art through play, while adults gain new perspectives—often with a touch of humor.

A visit combines the enjoyment of art with a stop at the museum’s café or a stroll through the Georgengarten, demonstrating just how timeless humor can be.