Activities

The Consortium of German Art Associations (ADKV) represents art associations in metropolitan areas and rural regions. These associations may be run by volunteers or professionals, and may receive funding or finance themselves entirely through donations and membership fees. While the non-profit associations may be organised in different ways, they are united by their desire to establish platforms for art, culture, and the exchange of ideas on current issues within an open, diverse, and democratic civil society. The network of art associations ensures access to art and culture for all, even in small communities, and provides a platform for artistic work.

The ADKV sees itself as a network and representative of its members. It supports art associations in professionalising their work, promotes the concept of art associations to the public, and encourages the further development and networking of associations. In 2021, at the instigation of the ADKV, Kunstvereine were included in the nationwide list of intangible cultural heritage by the German UNESCO Commission.

On behalf of the Kunstvereine, the ADKV is involved in cultural policy at a federal level, for example in the Art Fund Foundation, the German Arts Council and the German Cultural Council. The ADKV is also involved in drafting framework agreements with GEMA and VG Bildkunst. ADKV board members organise regional networking events. Representation at state and municipal level is possible if required; for example, during the cuts to the Berlin cultural budget in 2024/25.

The ADKV is also involved in international networks such as ENAAK.

The ADKV initiates and implements projects and programmes in which member associations can participate. For example, the WORK ART exchange programme with US scholarship holders who complete internships in art associations.

The art association and art criticism prizes awarded in conjunction with Art Cologne have gained an excellent reputation and are among the ADKV's most highly regarded activities.

Thanks to the support of the Wulf-Herzogenrath Foundation, the ADKV is also able to organise the annual ADKV Herzogenrath Forum, which features lectures, discussions and workshops on current challenges. The ADKV Herzogenrath Prize is awarded annually at the forum to individuals who have provided outstanding voluntary services to art associations.

The organisation of concrete assistance and the recognition of members' concerns is dependent on effective communication with and advisory services for member associations.