Feathers, Frost and Fantastic Creatures

The exhibition presents works in wood, ceramics, paper, wire, metal and textiles: birds that seem to float, imaginative nutcrackers, delicate feather objects, miniature paper theatres, music boxes, ceramic wings, and fascinating figures inhabiting the space between fairy tales and observations of nature. Many of the works have been created specifically for the exhibition. Artists receive the theme in summer and develop new ideas in response.

Lightness, enchantment and the winter season are at the heart of this exhibition. A fairy-tale world emerges, in which mythical creatures suddenly seem to come to life, says curator Elke-Helene Hügel.

A particular highlight of this year’s exhibition is a collection of around 30 Traumkästchen (dream boxes) by Munich-based children's book illustrator and artist Ali Mitgutsch (1935–2022). These rarely exhibited works grew out of his passion for collecting and observing. In small glazed boxes, Mitgutsch arranged found objects, fragments of paper, figures and travel souvenirs into poetic miniature worlds that tell stories and stimulate the imagination.

The exhibition also pays tribute to this distinctive artist, who had previously participated in Galerie Handwerk’s Christmas exhibitions. His dream boxes continue to captivate visitors. You can lose yourself in these miniature worlds and discover new stories every time, says Hügel.

Woodcarving schools from Munich, Oberammergau and Berchtesgaden also make an important contribution this year. As part of their studies, students explore the exhibition theme and create new works specifically for the occasion. Alongside established artists, the Christmas exhibition once again provides a platform for emerging talent.

As part of the accompanying programme, Galerie Handwerk invites visitors to a special evening on Wednesday, 2 December 2026, at 6.30 pm. Entitled Stories of My Father, Told by His Son, Oliver Mitgutsch will share personal memories of his father and reflect on his artistic practice.

For almost three decades, the Christmas exhibition has been a regular fixture in Galerie Handwerk’s annual programme. Many visitors return year after year in search of unusual Christmas gifts, collectable objects and unique pieces. There is something for every budget. Those wishing to purchase a work are advised to visit early, as many objects find new owners during the first days of the exhibition.

Opening reception: Tuesday, 24 November 2026, 6.30 pm.

Accompanying Programme: Wednesday, 2 December 2026, 6.30 pm.
Stories of My Father, Told by His Son, with Oliver Mitgutsch.
Registration is requested: galerie@hwk-muenchen.de

Guided tours for groups and children's groups are available by arrangement.
Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 am–6 pm; Thursday, 10 am–8 pm; Saturday, 10 am–1 pm.
Closures: Sundays, public holidays and 24 December.
Admission: Free.