Its aim has been to introduce contemporary fine arts to a wide public by means of exhibitions and other forms of presentation. After the reunification of the two parts of the city, these tasks have extended to cover the whole of Berlin, and the NBK is seeking to make its own contribution as eastern and western districts gradually grow together in the field of culture.

One of the Kunstverein´s priorities is the organisation of exhibitions of contemporary art; since 1994, these have been held at our new location in Berlin-Mitte. High quality catalogues are published in conjunction with all the exhibitions, informing the reader about the background and references to the works of art, artists and themes which we present.

In addition, in 1970 the NBK founded the first Artothek (Art Library) in Germany, which lends works of art to the inhabitants of Berlin free of charge.This department also includes the Artothek mobil, which compiles and arranges thematic exhibitions mainly for schools. Our Video-Forum, which has existed since 1972, comprises a comprehensive collection of international artists´ videotapes which may be shown to interested viewers on request. The collection also includes our own productions.

A matter of great importance to the NBK is its function as a mediator between contemporary art and the public. For this reason, we do not only organise exhibitions, but numerous supplementary programmes, such as the weekly Treffpunkt NBK (Meeting Point NBK), which offers lectures, discussions with artists, performances and other art related activities.

The NBK also offers attractive bonuses – that is, editions of small original works and printed graphics which are presented to us for the purpose by both young and well-known artists and which can be acquired by members at a reduced price. Regular visits to artists´ studios and workshops are also organised for NBK members.