After the controversial powder dance during the opening ceremony, the next Salzkammergut excitement was unveiled just a few days later! Artist Gottfried Helnwein hangs his works on two central buildings in Gmunden, Upper Austria, as part of the Salzkammergut Festival Weeks. The focus is on evocative images of children – and it shows a whole new side.
“My photos are often like a frozen moment in some drama whose outcome is open,” says Gottfried Helnwein to “Krone” at the official presentation of his new works in Gmunden.
In fact, it indicates drama. A bloodied child – possibly a victim of the current wars; a child in an SS uniform – becomes the perpetrator himself, both photos hang in the city theater. They are oversized banners with overwhelming themes and powerless victims of ideology and violence.
A society that too often looks the other way
Helnwein is one of Austria’s most world-famous artists; he is a pacifist and a bitter opponent of violence. Now he shakes up the comfort of a society that too often looks the other way and wants to stimulate discussion: “My art does not ask questions, it does not explain, my art is dialogue.”
Tenderness is central
Also in Gmunden it touches people’s deepest beings. The third motif has a conciliatory effect and puts tenderness at the heart of Gmunden: the town hall is decorated with kissing children. The great coup to bring Helnwein to the Salzkammergut was also successful because he is in love with the landscape.
“As a child I spent a few summers at Lake Traunsee and even climbed the Traunstein. The Salzkammergut with its lakes and mountains is certainly one of the most fascinating, magical places in Europe.”
And Helnwein will stay longer because there will also be an exhibition in the city museum.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
