Exhibition opening by Artist Jaz in Vienna

My trip to Vienna had a purpose: a private view by artist Jaz. Having missed various exhibitions and live events, I was able to make it to the exhibition opening at the restaurant “Sopherl am Naschmarkt”.

Jaz is my niece, has been living in Vienna for some time, and has settled into the local art and culture scene, building a reputation and brand with her works, projects, and live performances. Her works, among other things, explore phallocentric traditions that aestheticise violence, domination, and fragmentation.

Until the official opening with the artist’s introduction and further speeches, guests on this mild evening stood and sat outside on the terrace, observing the usual hustle and bustle of the Naschmarkt. They were joined by the occasional unusually dressed tourist, likely in town for the parallel European Song Contest. Gradually, friends and acquaintances, art enthusiasts, and curious guests arrived at the venue.

The Sturm und Drang (SUD) collective provided the perfect musical atmosphere.: a Vienna-based collective that, according to their own statement, is all about electronic sound and community. First lounge background music, then increasingly danceable rhythms and beats.

Another highlight in this colourful and diverse setting was provided by the two performances by Gwen Darling with her Drag & Burlesque show.

In a double interview, Vincent and his persona Gwen Darling talk about themselves, the art form of drag, and why even the queer community isn’t always a safe space.

The convivial evening, with a few glasses of Weisser Spritzer – I had to take photos, after all – dancing, and good conversations, didn’t end until closing time. Thus, “Sopherl” once again delivered as a Viennese Kultbeisl.

A Viennese Beisl, by the way, is a traditional, rustic inn in Vienna, known for its individual, often nostalgic atmosphere and a loyal clientele. It differs from the elegant Viennese coffee house by its focus on heartier food, beer and wine, and a much more down-to-earth atmosphere – and in this case, also the audience from the art and culture scene.