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Since 1907, Bayer has been culturally committed, and in 1908, the Erholungshaus—a dedicated theatre and concert hall—was added in Leverkusen. Originally established to improve employees' quality of life, Bayer Arts and Culture has since developed a unique profile of its own.
"Art promotion is part of Bayer's corporate DNA. Since Galileo Galilei, it has been known: Science and art are two sides of the same coin."
Beginnings of Art Promotion
Since 1907, Bayer has been continuously committed to art and culture, significantly shaping the urban development of Leverkusen. Early on, the focus was on the cultural education of employees and the establishment of dedicated spaces for exchange and interaction. In the early days, contemporary training concepts, lectures, and entertainment evenings characterised the events of the cultural department. Additionally, library and "reading education" initiatives were introduced in facilities such as the company library, reading hall, and children's reading hall. Clubs and artistic ensembles supported by the company were formed. The ceremonial opening of the Erholungshaus was conducted by Prof. Dr. Carl Duisberg on September 13, 1908.
The Erholungshaus since 1908
With the opening of the Erholungshaus, this commitment gained its own theatre and concert hall. The neo-baroque building quickly evolved from a place of relaxation, education, and community for employees to the cultural centre of Bayer in Leverkusen for everyone in the city. To this day, the Erholungshaus is one of the most traditional venues in North Rhine-Westphalia and serves as the home venue for Bayer Arts and Culture.
Development to date
From the originally employee-oriented cultural work, an independent cultural brand has emerged over the course of more than 100 years: Bayer Arts and Culture. Today, the program includes the nationwide stARTfestival (since 2021), the stARTacademy for promoting young talents in music, dance, and film (since 2009), as well as offerings for children and young people within the framework of early stART. In addition, Bayer Arts and Culture continues to support cultural associations and promotes traditional formats such as the Leverkusen Jazz Days to sustainably strengthen cultural life in the region. In doing so, Bayer Arts and Culture combines historical responsibility, artistic excellence, and social participation at several locations in Germany.
Get to know us
© Key Visual: Bayer Arts and Culture (Joshua Williams), Photos: Bayer Archives (Erholungshaus Opening Ceremony 1908), Bayer Arts and Culture / Tobias Becker (Erholungshaus, Bayer Accordion Orchestra Leverkusen, Team Photo Bayer Arts and Culture, Bayer Wind Orchestra), Carsten Goke (Jakob Manz), Ben Ealovega (Mirga Grazinyte-Tyla)