by Erich
Status: 10.29.2023
The impressive history of the spinning mill: As well as its fascinating galleries, the old spinning mill also has a fascinating history. In 1884, the first spinning mill hall was built – it consisted of just five spinning frames. A year later, production was in full swing with 30,000 self-acting spindles. The first workers’ housing block was built on Thüringerstraße, and by 1888 the second spinning mill had already been established. By 1907, there were already five halls. Over time, a spinning mill school, a company fire brigade, a canteen, a bathhouse, a nursery, a brass band, many flats and, in fact, just about everything one needs for daily life were established. The Leipzig Cotton Mill had developed into one of the largest spinning mills on the continent.
Cotton imports
Of course, there is also a downside to this: cotton imports were only possible thanks to the labour of 2,000 African workers in Tanzania. Land grabbing and enslavement played a major part in these imports. Under the Nazis, production for military uniforms was heavily subsidised; two-thirds of the workforce were now women, who were rewarded with housing and family allowances. The cotton mill refused to take on concentration camp prisoners, but had been allocated 500 foreign forced labourers. By 1993, yarn production had ceased and the factory was closed down. Gradually, the building was discovered for alternative uses. Artists moved into studios, workshops were opened, and even the Schauspielhaus Leipzig was drawn to this special place. Artists such as Neo Rauch shaped the so-called ‘Leipzig School’ and breathed ever more new life into the complex.
Tour
The cotton mill has always been a central hub of life and community. From the very beginning, culture was actively promoted and regarded as important. It is all the more wonderful that this place continues to be a meeting point even today. For students, the art market is, of course, something quite special. It is a place where artists, galleries and inspiration come together. An important aspect of the tour of the Spinnerei Leipzig is the viewing and potential purchase of artworks, which for many artists and galleries is a key part of their work. Through direct contact with the artworks and the artists themselves, visitors have the opportunity to gain a deeper insight into the history and significance of the works, enabling them to make a more informed decision about purchasing a piece of art.
The Spinnerei art scene
The sale of art is important not only for artists and galleries, but also for the art scene in general. By purchasing works of art, visitors not only support the artists themselves, but also help ensure that the art scene can continue to flourish. For young and emerging artists in particular, the sale of artworks can provide the decisive impetus for a successful career. Furthermore, a tour of the Spinnerei Leipzig offers a unique opportunity to get to know the contemporary art scene in Leipzig and beyond. Visitors can see for themselves the diversity and quality of the artworks and be inspired. A visit to the exhibition is therefore an enriching experience not only for art lovers, but also for anyone interested in contemporary art and culture.
Who will be the next to exhibit at the Spinnerei?
This is where students from the renowned Academy of Visual Arts (HGB) in Leipzig showcase their work, whilst we eagerly await to see who will be the next to exhibit at the Spinnerei. The close connection to the historically significant “Old Leipzig School” underlines the unique character of this venue and the university. Many well-known artists, such as Neo Rauch, have emerged from here.&
About the students at HGB Leipzig
