Wotruba International at Belvedere 21: Exploring Global Networks of Postwar Modernist Sculpture

This exhibition at Belvedere 21 commemorates the 50th anniversary of Fritz Wotruba's death by exploring his international exhibition activities and the reception of his sculptures. It highlights his connections with prominent sculptors of his time through historically informed juxtapositions of their works.

Commemorating the 50th anniversary of Fritz Wotruba's death (1907–75), Belvedere 21 presents 'Wotruba International,' an exhibition that shifts the focus from Wotruba's influence and monographs to his significant engagement with the international art scene. The exhibition delves into his extensive network of fellow sculptors, including friendships with Marino Marini, Henry Moore, and Germaine Richier, and his acquaintance with artists such as César, Alberto Giacometti, and Louise Nevelson. By featuring historically informed juxtapositions of Wotruba's sculptures alongside those of his contemporaries like Kenneth Armitage, Lynn Chadwick, and Alicia Penalba, the presentation illuminates his distinctive sculptural language and its resonance within Postwar Modernism. The spatial staging by the next ENTERprise Architects aims to offer a fresh perspective on Wotruba as a key voice in the international discourse on the human form in art after 1945. Fritz Wotruba is recognized as a pivotal figure in Austrian art post-1945, achieving early international recognition and developing a unique sculptural style during his exile and subsequent return to Vienna. His work, deeply rooted in the human figure, evolved towards abstraction and monumental forms, serving as a humanistic response to the devastation of war. Wotruba was a constant presence on the international stage, participating in numerous prestigious events like the Venice Biennale and documenta, and holding over seventy solo exhibitions globally. His oeuvre, today housed in major international collections, has been on long-term loan to Belvedere since 2011 and is now part of its permanent collection.

Ticketing information is available via a link directing visitors to the Belvedere's general ticket page, suggesting that standard museum admission applies, possibly with timed entry options. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online for potential savings and to secure their entry.