Hermann Nitsch. Gesamtkunstwerk

On display for the first time in Lithuania is an exhibition Hermann Nitsch’s work. The exhibit introduces a comprehensive collection on loan from art collectors from Graz and from the Nitsch Foundation in Vienna. It Spans various techniques, diverse media, philosophical quotes from the master of Vienna Actionism that represent almost 60 years of the artist’s oeuvre – the manifestation of a gesamtkunstwerk – the path towards his drama O.M. Theater and the first showing of the play in its entirety, lasting 6 days.

Jonas Mekas, a life-long friend of Nitsch, also plays a part in the exposition. His film “Scenes from the Life of Hermann Nitsch,” installed in a separate space of the museum – the long narrow balcony – reflects the path of both artists’ friendship, their explorations, experiences through travel, celebrations, participation in Nitsch’s actions – they had spent over 50 years together. Nitsch visited Lithuania for the first time in 1986 with his wife, Rita Nitsch. Their great friendship with Jonas Mekas and George Maciunas brought their collective curriosity to explore, experience and memorize the country with such strong artist roots.

Learn more Curator Lina Albrikienė: Exhibition “Hermann Nitsch. Gesamtkunstwerk”

Curator Lina Albrikienė in collaboration with Roman Grabner
Consultant Martha Schildorfer
Architect Sigita Simona Paplauskaitė
Graphic designer Rūta Rancevaitė
Producing architect Tomas Styra
Light designer Renaldas Bartulis

Art collection from: Nitsch Foundation, Galerie Sommer, diethARdT collection, Galerie Zimmermann-Kratochwill, THP Privatstiftung

Supported by: Lithuanian Council for Culture, Panevėžys City Municipality, Rita Nitsch, Kalnapilis
Media partner LRT

We would like to inform you that the exhibition “Hermann Nitsch. Gesamtkunstwerk,” displayed in our museum, is intended for visitors aged 18 and above. This (18+) age restriction has been established to ensure the content of the exhibition is properly understood and appreciated.

Some of the works may be considered provocative or elicit strong reactions. The exhibition features: ritualistic motifs involving blood and corporeality, as well as intense visual and symbolic scenes. We encourage you to consider your readiness to visit, especially if you have sensitivities or experiences that could amplify the emotional impact.

If museum staff have any doubts about a visitor’s age, we may ask for identification. Certain works in the exhibition are marked and cannot be photographed or filmed.

Thank you for your understanding.

The exhibition is exclusively for visitors aged 18 and above.

H. Nitsch and J. Mekas