Contemporary Art in the MuseumsQuartier

The Kunsthalle Wien is one of the most exciting venues for contemporary art in the Austrian capital. With its two locations in the MuseumsQuartier and on Karlsplatz, it offers a diverse program that appeals to people from all backgrounds—from international visitors to the local queer community. Every year, new exhibitions, performances, and educational programs are created here that address current social issues and create space for dialogue.

There is a special focus on collaboration with artists from Vienna and around the world. The Kunsthalle Wien regularly initiates new productions and develops exhibitions and publications based on current research. In doing so, it creates a platform that highlights diverse perspectives and stimulates discussion about art, identity, and contemporary culture.

Current program
From May 1 to October 26, 2026, the Kunsthalle Wien will be presenting one of its major highlights: “Lebt und arbeitet in Wien – Contemporary Art from Vienna.” For over half a year, all of the institution’s exhibition spaces will be transformed into a comprehensive showcase of the current Viennese art scene.

More than 50 artists will present sculptures, installations, drawings, paintings, photography, performances, and video works. Many of the works have been created especially for the exhibition or are being shown in Vienna for the first time. The format ties in with a presentation from 2000 and offers a deep insight into the diverse, international, and culturally diverse communities that shape Vienna as a creative place to live and work.

The exhibition is accompanied by an extensive, year-long public program that opens up additional perspectives and strengthens the exchange between art, city, and society.

The complete program can be found on the Kunsthalle Wien website.

History and Architecture

The Kunsthalle Wien opened in 1992 in unusual temporary premises: a temporary container building on Karlsplatz, designed by architect Adolf Krischanitz. The striking yellow building initially caused some controversy, but quickly became a defining feature of Vienna’s cultural landscape and provided important impetus for the contemporary art scene.

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Location