Schering AG saw it as an important task to support the cultural and artistic life of Berlin, especially West Berlin, during the years when Germany was divided. Through regular exhibitions organized by the “Schering Kunstverein,” thematic hangings in the corridors and meeting rooms of the company’s office buildings, and a growing picture-lending library (Artothek), the company made an important contribution to the city’s art scene. The art collection was transferred to the Schering Stiftung after the liquidation of the business operations of Schering AG in 2006, but the majority of the works remained on the Bayer AG site on Müllerstrasse in Wedding. The works decorated the corridors and offices or were integrated into the Bayer Artothek and could be borrowed by employees.

The decision to part with this legacy was not an easy one. However, the Schering Stiftung from its founding has focused its activities on promoting pioneering work in the sciences and arts, and so the proceeds from the sale are to go towards new, innovative projects that will benefit Berlin’s art scene today.