In the location's words:

The Ahlen Art Museum presents art from the early 20th century to the present day in three temporary exhibitions each year. On display are positions of classical modernism, art after 1945 - including ZERO and constructive-concrete approaches - as well as current contemporary works. A particular leitmotif is the phenomenon of "light", which is reflected in painting, photography, sculpture and installations.

The museum's collection comprises around 2,000 works, including works by Christian Rohlfs, Margret Eicher and the "total artist" Timm Ulrichs, and constantly enters into a conceptual dialog with the temporary exhibitions.

As a barrier-free, inclusive and academic institution, the Kunstmuseum Ahlen promotes aesthetic experiences, takes up social discourse and develops contemporary mediation formats for visitors of all ages.

The museum has its origins in the initiative of entrepreneur Theodor F. Leifeld, who had a Wilhelminian-style villa restored in 1993, thus laying the foundation for today's building. The 1996 extension created an architecturally unique ensemble of three buildings: the representative 19th century villa, a modern steel and glass extension and a simple 18th century farmhouse. A sculpture garden, outdoor light art and an adjoining restaurant complete this lively cultural venue with national appeal.