Picture this! The Belvedere Collection from Cranach to Lassnig: A Vienna Exhibition on Art and Society

This exhibition explores the dynamic relationship between art and society across eight hundred years of art history, from the Middle Ages to the 1970s. It highlights how artists responded to their times, influenced by political, social, and economic environments. The display uses self-portraits as a central theme to reveal the evolving self-conception of artists throughout history.

"Picture this! The Belvedere Collection from Cranach to Lassnig" delves into the profound connections between artistic creation and the societal contexts in which it emerges. Moving beyond mere stylistic categorizations, this presentation of the collection investigates how eras of upheaval, international networks, and economic conditions have shaped art. Selected self-portraits serve as a recurring motif, offering intimate glimpses into the evolving identity and self-perception of artists across centuries, from anonymity to autonomy. The exhibition guides visitors on a chronological journey through the Belvedere's renowned collection, spanning eight hundred years of art history from the Middle Ages to the 1970s. It showcases the evolution of art in response to diverse influences, including political shifts, migration, and economic pressures, reflecting the complexity of each historical period. The presentation emphasizes the active role artists play within their social developments, offering a multifaceted view of art history. Curated by a team including Björn Blauensteiner, Verena Gamper, Sabine Grabner, and others, the exhibition aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Belvedere's collection through the lens of societal impact on art. The hashtag #belvederecollection is associated with this display.

The exhibition is located at Upper Belvedere, Prinz-Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna. Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 9 am - 6 pm. Visitors can purchase tickets via the provided link, with options to buy and save online for specific time slots.