ART EMPIRE on 25th and 26th October 2025.

Hamburg, 1st October 2025

More Than Just Skin: On the 25th and 26th of October, the Empire Riverside Hotel presents ART EMPIRE, an art exhibition of the highest calibre. Over 100 exhibits spanning a wide range of styles will be on display in the hotel’s halls.

Exhibiting artists include Hamburg-based creatives Lauris & Friends from the legendary Fettgalerie on Fettstraße, Agnieszka Pasek, Janina Thole, Lisa Wiemann, Leo Craft, Conny Beggerow, a tribute to Zigi Komorowski, as well as artists from the Erotic Art Museum collection. The artistic diversity and interpretive richness are set to captivate not only seasoned art lovers. The selection of artists was made by the Empire Riverside Hotel in collaboration with Ekkehard Opitz, director of the Erotic Art Museum. Admission is free.

With this extravagant art event, the hotel emphasises its connection to the city and its distinctive location in St. Pauli, between the harbour and the infamous Reeperbahn. “In October, the Empire Riverside Hotel transforms for two days into a true ‘Art Empire’. Local art stars light up the hotel with unique works, bold perspectives and vibrant creativity. Together with the artists, we make Hamburg’s art scene tangible. The hotel becomes a stage, a meeting point, a pulsating centre for culture, dialogue and inspiration,” says Enrico Ungermann, Director of the Empire Riverside Hotel. ART EMPIRE builds on last year’s successful one-day art event, which welcomed around 500 visitors.

A Space for Dialogue and Diversity
“Our society needs art. It makes diversity visible and creates space for dialogue – especially when it is most needed,” says Ekkehart Opitz, director of the Erotic Art Museum. Visitors are invited to engage with the artists about their works during the exhibition. Those who find a new favourite piece have the opportunity to purchase it on site.

Action at Germany’s Highest Tattoo Studio
For art that goes under the skin, tattoo artist Cü opens Germany’s highest tattoo studio during the vernissage in the Skyline Bar 20up, 90 metres above the city with spectacular views from the 20th floor. Ten organ-donation tattoos will be offered free of charge. Additionally, the Empire Riverside Hotel sponsors tattoos showcasing the hotel’s logo in a creative way. Appointments can be booked in advance here.

Event at a Glance:
What: ART EMPIRE at the Empire Riverside Hotel
When: 25th–26th October 2025, 11 am – 5 pm
Price: Free admission
Where: Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 97, 20359 Hamburg