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The German section of AICA has selected Karl Ruhrberg, who turned eighty on 9 November, as an honorary member. In doing so, the chapter pays homage to a critic, art publicist and museum man whose commitment to art and artists for more than a half-century has been extraordinary. He was president of the German AICA from 1970 to 1975.
After the Second World War, Ruhrberg was a leading light who, in word and deed, authoritatively supported the ambitious Rhein art scene that was breaking new ground in Germany during the 1960’s and 70’s. A dramatic advisor, amateur boxer and football fan, among other things, his temperament and interests predestined him to become a full-blooded critic. Pugnacious but intermediary, practical and yet not without farsightedness, and assertive to the limits of feasibility, as founding director of the Düsseldorf Kunsthalle he set the course for an exhibition policy which proved itself exemplary far beyond Düsseldorf. In the 1970’s, he brought new momentum to the German Academic Exchange Service’s Berlin artist program. He was later appointed founding director of the new Museum Ludwig in Cologne, in order to give impetus to its “Westkunst” exhibition.
Aside from his institutional duties, Karl Ruhrberg made a name for himself as author of several standard references and numerous essays on 20th century art. He continues to be a sought after advisor and source of inspiration, who doesn’t hesitate to go to the barricades when he believes that the art world’s freedoms for which he fought are threatened. His friends call him “Charly“. We offer him our heartfelt congratulations.
Berlin, 9 November 2004 JÜRGEN HARTEN
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