On September 3, 2023, Gertrud Sackerlotzky passed away at the age of 85 after a short, serious illness. The Bumiller Art Foundation, sponsor of the University Museum of Islamic Art, is thus not only losing its president, but also a dedicated museum director who actively supported the activities of the university museum until the very end.

As Manfred Bumiller’s partner, she accompanied the development of the collection from its beginnings in 1981 in the villa they shared in Munich. The planning and establishment of a museum at a suitable location eventually led her back to her home town of Bamberg. In addition to managing the foundation set up specifically to support the Bumiller Collection, she took over as President of the museum after the death of her long-time partner, the benefactor Manfred Bumiller in 2018 and appointed a curator to look after the extensive collection. She has accompanied the redesign of the exhibition in recent years with great commitment, interest and active input. She was always an important and wise contact person for questions regarding the organization, furnishing and presentation of the museum.

Despite her work in Bamberg, she did not neglect her passion for traveling. Here, too, culture has always been a significant driving force. She always came back from her numerous travel destinations in Europe and beyond inspired and with new ideas.

Her unwavering interest in art, combined with her keen powers of observation and her direct and jovial manner, always created a lively atmosphere. The museum team will miss her commitment.