„All Is Move“ - Erika Giovanna Klien - A Portrait

„The Belvedere is presenting an extensive solo exhibition dedicated to the work of Austrian-American artist and art educator Erika Giovanna Klien (1900–1957), on view until 31 January 2027. As a leading exponent of Viennese Kineticism, Klien achieved international recognition early in her career. Her passion for theatre and dance inspired innovative stage designs and complex depictions of bodies in motion. From 1929 onwards, Klien lived in New York, where her work increasingly engaged with urban spaces and social issues.“

Having come across a poster advertising the exhibition at the Belvedere, composer Barbara Bruckmüller decided to visit, without having known of the artist beforehand. What she discovered fascinated her so deeply that she spent three hours exploring the exhibition. Klien’s paintings, her extraordinary perception of movement, and the philosophical depth of her work left a lasting impression on Bruckmüller. In her view, Klien is an artist of exceptional stature whose work can stand alongside that of the great names in art history. Bruckmüller finds it all the more regrettable that Klien, like so many women artists of her time, has yet to receive the attention and recognition she deserves.
Her encounter with Klien’s work inspired Barbara Bruckmüller to create her new programme. Drawing on the artist’s paintings, she traces the many expressions of movement in art, embarking on a journey from movement to painting to music.

Join us for an evening that engages not only the ears but also the eyes, inviting you into the fascinating world of Erika Giovanna Klien through a rich interplay of musical and visual impressions.

Short version:
„The Belvedere is presenting [until Jan 31, 2027] an extensive solo exhibition dedicated to Austrian-American artist and art educator Erika Giovanna Klien (1900–1957). A leading exponent of Viennese Kineticism, Klien gained early international recognition. Her passion for theatre and dance inspired innovative stage designs and dynamic depictions of movement. After moving to New York in 1929, her work increasingly explored urban spaces and social issues.“

Discovering Klien through a Belvedere exhibition poster, composer Barbara Bruckmüller was so captivated by her work that she spent three hours exploring the exhibition. Deeply impressed by Klien’s artistic vision and philosophical depth, she believes this remarkable artist deserves far greater recognition.

Inspired by Klien’s paintings, Bruckmüller’s new programme explores the connection between movement, visual art and music.
Join her for an evening of musical and visual impressions, and discover the fascinating world of Erika Giovanna Klien.