From Coal to Art
The History of the Kunstkraftwerk
Starting in July 2026
During the main exhibition's hours of operation
13 indoor and outdoor stations
for
Where digital art, immersive exhibitions, and spectacular light installations now captivate visitors at the Kunstkraftwerk Leipzig, energy was once generated using coal, water, and hard physical labor. The exhibition “From Coal to Art”brings the industrial past of the former combined-heat-and-power plant to life and tells the story of the extraordinary transformation of this historic building into one of Germany’s best-known centers for digital and immersive art.
The approximately 60-minute discovery trail can be booked as a supplement to the main exhibitions and guides visitors through key areas of the former combined heat and power plant. Along the way, at informative stations, you’ll independently trace the journey of the coal—from the coal yard through the conveyor systems, bunkers, and boilers all the way to the filtration systems and the ash cellar. You’ll be guided by the personal memories of former shift supervisor Wolfgang Knospe, who worked there from 1982 until the cogeneration plant was decommissioned in 1992.
Experience the fascinating transformation from a former combined-heat-and-power plant to today’s Digital Art Center, and discover how industrial history, architecture, and contemporary digital art come together in a unique way at the Kunstkraftwerk Leipzig.
Accompanying booklet
