Ferdinand Ullrich

Prof. Dr. Ferdinand Ullrich is an Honorary Professor for Art in Public Space at the University of Fine Arts Münster. He previously served as the Director of the Museums of the City of Recklinghausen (1988–2017) and led the Kunsthalle Recklinghausen. He has held roles including Director of the Art Exhibition at the Ruhrfestspiele Recklinghausen (1989–2009), and was a Full-Time Visiting Professor at the University of Fine Arts Münster (2009–2010). His curatorial work includes leading the Golden Village project for EMSCHERKUNST.2010 and RUHR.2010 as part of the European Capital of Culture initiative.

Education: Studied fine arts at the University of Fine Arts Münster as a Meisterschüler under Timm Ulrichs (state examination), followed by studies in art history, philosophy, and education at Ruhr University Bochum (1978–1981). He earned a doctorate in 1990 on the artist group junger westen.

Research focuses on public art, light art, art in architectural contexts, and nature-inspired installations. His projects emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement. He has curated major exhibitions including Emscherkunst (2010, 2013, 2016) and monographic shows for artists like Jannis Kounellis and Tatsuo Miyajima.

Professional roles include managing the Vestischer Künstlerbund (artists’ association) and advising the Kunstverein Recklinghausen and insurer Barmenia. His work bridges art, urban planning, and cultural heritage, fostering public engagement through large-scale installations and exhibitions.