TransAct statement

The FPÖ did come into the Austrian government by democratic means. However, it is to be expected that measures will be introduced under the new government which ignore the special characteristics of contemporary art and therefore considerably restrict the freedom of art. It is important and right that such a government should be closely observed, in terms of both its cultural policy and its politics in general. However, this should not lead to a sweeping judgement of Austria. In view of the current situation the worst thing that could be done is to stop co-operation with Austrian institutions which serve modern and contemporary art or to boycott contemporary Austrian artists. On the contrary, this co-operation enables the country to maintain the freedom of movement which contemporary art fundamentally needs. 

Dr. Andreas Hapkemeyer, Bolzano
Vice-director Museion

22nd of February 2K