From the Forge to the Cultural Forge

The Cultural Forge JUNGE KUNST in Nieder-Olm presents its exhibitions at a truly historically significant location – in the barn of the "Old Forge Wettig". The blacksmith workshop from 1776 is today preserved in the state of the 1920s – with original furnishings and tools. Cultural events take place throughout the year in the barn across the way, including the exhibitions of the Cultural Forge JUNGE KUNST.

This art initiative was established exactly 20 years ago by the town of Nieder-Olm and the artist couple Liesel and Johannes Metten, who live locally. The idea was to support young artists in the region and provide them with a professional platform for their works. This idea still stands. Since then, new and demanding art has been presented here in the proximity of the city – appreciated by artists, visitors, and art enthusiasts.

An Initiative for Young Artists

The Cultural Forge JUNGE KUNST in Nieder-Olm is known far beyond the region. Interesting collaborations exist with the Mainz University of Applied Sciences and the Institute for Artistic Ceramics and Glass at the University of Koblenz. For many artists, an exhibition in the architecturally ambitious spaces of the Cultural Forge has become a stepping stone to prestigious galleries and exhibition spaces in larger cities. The Mainz ZONTA Art Prize is also awarded every two years at the Cultural Forge, showcasing the works of the prizewinners there. We are proud of this as well!

The "Cultural Forge" – an initiative of the artist couple Liesel and Johannes Metten – and the art association Glockwerks Lichte Kunstprojekte e.V. offer their own permanent cultural program throughout the year. Over time, this has created a small oasis of art in Nieder-Olm. A lot of time and effort is invested by all involved to present new fields of visual art in Nieder-Olm annually.