The association is officially called Verein der Freunde und Förderer der Kunstsammlungen des Kunstgeschichtlichen Instituts in der Ruhr-Universität Bochum Situation Kunst Haus Weitmar.

It was established in 1987 in order to support and promote the fledgling project Situation Kunst.

Situation Kunst, established between 1988 and 1990, was initiated by Alexander von Berswordt-Wallrabe to commemorate the founder of the Institute of Art History at the Ruhr University Bochum, Professor Max Imdahl (1925-1988). In 1990, after being donated to the association Situation Kunst - Haus Weitmar was renamed Situation Kunst (für Max Imdahl). Since then it has been connected to the Institute of Art History as part of the collections of the Ruhr University, while continuing to be supported by the association.

The aim of the association is to advocate and maintain art. It promotes contemporary art by conveying information to art history students and to the general public. This is accomplished through organizing guided tours, lectures, discussion rounds and readings for the general public. These activities bring presented works of art closer to the audience and enhance the general understanding of contemporary art.

The association is responsible for the maintenance of the collections in Situation Kunst and supports publications, lecture series and scholarships connected with the Institute of Art History.