Through the Dark: Über Leben in autoritären Zeiten – A 2025 Exhibition at Volkskundemuseum Wien

This program focus for 2025 explores life under authoritarian regimes and in societies shifting towards the right. It questions the impact of political and societal restrictions, the role of institutions, and presents opportunities for participation and mutual care.

From March to September 2025, the Volkskundemuseum Wien dedicates its program to the pressing questions arising in increasingly dark times, under the title 'Through the Dark. Über Leben in autoritären Zeiten'. The focus addresses the realities of living under authoritarian regimes and in societies that are shifting politically to the right. It investigates what happens when democratic institutions are dismantled, participation is restricted, and social support systems are diminished, contrasting this with efforts towards engagement and mutual care based on empathy and relationships. The program features workshops, lectures, performances, clubs, and installations organized into four 'MIKROFESTIVALS' at the Otto Wagner Areal. These are complemented by a conversation series at the Institute for European Ethnology and 'DEEP READINGS' at various city locations. The aim is to seek and test possibilities for action, learning from historical examples and exploring how dialogue can be maintained amidst polarization.

The page provides details on the exhibition's location at Pavillon 1, Otto Wagner Areal, and general museum opening hours (Tuesday-Friday, 10 AM-5 PM). Specific ticketing information for this program focus is not detailed, but visitors are directed to general museum information and contact details for inquiries. Some events are linked to specific institutes or external locations, suggesting potential variations in access or booking not fully detailed on this page.