15/05–05/10/2025

Ernst Gamperl

The tree of life project

The internationally renowned artist Ernst Gamperl (born 1965) has revolutionised the historical technique of woodturning and set new standards in this craft. Using a working technique that borders on magic, he models fascinating vessels and objects.

The exhibition presents Ernst Gamperl's ‘Tree of Life Project’ for the first time in Germany: a mighty 230-year-old oak tree uprooted by a storm became the creative inspiration and starting point for a ten-year work process in 2008. Gamperl transformed the giant with a diameter of 2.7 metres and a weight of 33 tonnes into a unique ensemble of 97 differently shaped vessels with a sculptural appearance.

In addition to the objects of the ‘Tree of Life’, the exhibition shows current works by the artist in dialogue with works of Baroque woodturning and ivory and other important artworks from the museum's collection.

More about Ernst Gamperl's tree of life project (external link)

Lebensbaumprojekt
Gamperl Cover

Begleitpublikation

Ernst Gamperl - Zwiesprache/Dialogue, hrsg. von Ulrike Spengler und Achim Heine, Stuttgart 2021, 256 S., 195 Abb., 38 Euro. Erhältlich an der Museumskasse

Ticket

Category Standard Standard + Special exhibition
Adults 7.00 EUR 10.00 EUR
Children and young people under the age of 18 free free
Concessions 6.00 EUR 8.00 EUR
Sunday 1.00 EUR 10.00 EUR
Sunday Concessions 1.00 EUR 8.00 EUR

The multimedia guide is included in the admission price. A fee of two euros is charged for free admission.

Events

30
Jul

Adults

Wed 17.30 - 22.00 Bayerisches Nationalmuseum

Danner Talk: Resonanzen

Art Talk with Ernst Gamperl, Nik Bärtsch und Sheila Loewe Boente. The Danner Foundation, in cooperation with the Bavarian National Museum and the Galerie Handwerk, invites you to…

03
Aug

Adults

Sun 11.00 - 12.00 Bayerisches Nationalmuseum

The Wooden Library of Brother Candid Huber

German guided tour: In Dialogue with Ernst Gamperl’s Tree of Life Project. Dr. Sybe Wartena The tour is free of charge. Exhibition admission applies.

18
Sep

Adults

Thu 18.30 - 20.00 Bayerisches Nationalmuseum

Artist Talk: Das Lebensbaumprojekt

Ernst Gamperl in Conversation with Dr. Frank Matthias Kammel Internationally renowned artist Ernst Gamperl has revolutionized the historic craft of woodturning. In a special…

28
Sep

Adults

Sun 11.00 - 12.00 Bayerisches Nationalmuseum

Tücken des Werkstoffs zur Tugend gemacht

German guided tour: Special exhibition. Dr. Sybe Wartena