The Städelschule is one of the most experimental art academies in the world and offers studies of Fine Arts, Architecture and Curatorial & Critical Studies. It has its origin in a foundation, that was initiated in 1817 by the Frankfurt townsman Johann Friedrich Städel.
The foundation was constituted upon a letter written by Städel and the letter provided the prerequisites for what would become the Städel Art Institute. Here, a public art collection was conjoined with an educational structure for young artists, chosen on the base of their talents more than anything else. The Städel Art Institute was thus established as an institution with a receptive dialogue between older and contemporary art as well as a productive development of new art forms. In the course of time, the institute developed into two independent institutions: the Städelmuseum and the Staatliche Hochschule für Bildende Künste - Städelschule.

The Städelschule is an international institution that is diverse in regards to both the teaching faculty and the student body. More than 70 percent of the students come from abroad. The relatively small number of about 130 students in the field of the liberal arts and around 60 students in the field of architecture allows a direct and intensive exchange with the twelve professors.

The Portikus, an exhibition hall for contemporary art, furthermore contributes to the international reputation of the school. As a part of the Städelschule, the Portikus is a particular institution at the interface between teaching and experimental exhibition making. The program presents new productions of renowned international artists alongside important young positions and alternates within a rhythm of about eight weeks. With its history of more than 200 exhibitions in 30 years, Portikus is one of the most important places for contemporary art worldwide.