The Günther Peill Foundation was established in 1986 by Carola Peill in honor of her husband Günther Peill. In the 1950s and 1960s, the glass manufacturer and his wife pursued pioneering art promotion both in the company "Peill & Putzler" and in the city of Düren. As passionate collectors, they collected mainly works of classical modern art, which are now in the Museum Ludwig in Cologne and the Leopold-Hoesch-Museum in Düren.
The aim of the Günther Peill Foundation is to promote young contemporary artists and to present their work in Düren. Since 1987, the foundation has been awarding two-year scholarships that conclude with a solo exhibition and a publication. Since 1996, the foundation has also awarded the highly endowed Peill Prize, which is also linked to an exhibition, to recognized artists who provide impetus. Previous award winners include Rosemarie Trockel, Jimmie Durham, Saâdane Afif, Haris Epaminonda and Alice Creischer.
In addition, the Günther Peill Foundation is an important supporter of the Leopold Hoesch Museum and, with its great support, made it possible for the architect Peter Kulka to realize the extension.