The exhibits shown at the New Gallery consist of a valuable collection of paintings and sculptures of regional and international importance, as well as new media from the 19th to the 21st century with a particular focus on the documenta works of art, which the museum has acquired with the kind support of the city of Kassel and the state of Hesse since 1982.

The highlights include groundbreaking 19th century paintings such as Carl Spitzweg's "Lovers in a Wood". This collection mainly illustrates the development of a new kind of landscape painting – from the heroic landscapes of the early 19th century to Romanticism and Realism, and the first Impressionist influences.

The 20th century pieces of the collection also include important examples of German impressionism, such as numerous works by the artist Lovis Corinth, and his main work "Walchensee". Another of the collection's key focuses lies on Classic Modernist paintings and sculptures. The art of the post-war years and contemporary art are represented by works of artists from Sigmar Polke to Andy Warhol and Gerhard Richter

When the museum opened in 1976, one room on the ground floor was furnished by none other than Joseph Beuys himself. It houses his installation "The Pack", as well as some of his other works.

The most important acquisitions from the documenta exhibitions include the immersive installation "Isola" by Mario Merz, Doris Salcedo's "THOU-LESS", a painting by Miriam Cahn as well as a part of Ai Weiwei's art project "Fairytale".