In September 2005 the Ernst Wilhelm Nay Stiftung was recognized by the District Government of Cologne as an independent foundation under the civil code.

The Foundation was established for the continuing promotion of Nay’s work through exhibitions and publications, as well as the museum-worthy conservation and scholarly handling of his estate.

Guardianship of Nay’s artistic effects, solely in the hands of the painter’s widow heretofore, has accordingly been assumed by the Foundation, and is now assured despite the founder’s death.