Vienna, Austria’s capital city, is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Among the many attractions in this beautiful city stands a unique cultural complex called MuseumsQuartier or MQ for short. This article will take you through an exploration of the Kunsthalle Wien and Tanzquartier Wien, two major establishments within MQ.
Introduction to MuseumsQuartier (MQ)
The MQ is a 60,000 square meter area that houses several museums and cultural institutions. It was developed in the late 1990s as part of Vienna’s efforts to create spaces for contemporary art and culture alongside historical monuments. The former imperial stables were transformed into this dynamic cultural hub by architects Laurids Ortner, Manfred Ortner und Manfred Wehdorn.
Kunsthalle Wien
Kunsthalle Wien is one of the key components of MQ. Established in 1992 as a temporary exhibition space on Karlsplatz before moving to its current location at MQ in 2001, it has since become an integral part of Vienna’s thriving contemporary art scene.
This institution focuses on presenting international contemporary art across various mediums including visual arts, performing arts, film & video work etc., making it an exciting destination for modern art enthusiasts visiting Vienna.
The exhibitions held here are often thought-provoking and challenge prevailing norms about society and culture. Past exhibits have included works from renowned artists such as Yoko Ono, Andy Warhol among others which gave visitors insights into their creative processes along with social commentaries they made through their works.
Tanzquartier Wien
Another significant establishment within the MuseumsQuartier complex is Tanzquartier Wien – one of Europe’s most advanced centres for dance that opened its doors in 2001. It is a place where dance meets research, training and performance.
Tanzquartier Wien hosts around 100 performances each year, featuring both local and international artists. The genres range from contemporary dance to experimental choreography, providing audiences with an eclectic mix of performances to enjoy.
But Tanzquartier isn’t just about watching performances; it’s also about participation. The center offers workshops for everyone from beginners to professionals, making it a hub for anyone interested in the art of movement. Furthermore, its library stocks over 6,000 books on dance history and theory as well as more than 1,500 videos – an invaluable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.
Visiting MQ
The MuseumsQuartier is conveniently located near Vienna’s city centre making it easily accessible by public transportation or even on foot if you are staying nearby. While entry into the area itself is free of charge (and open all day), individual institutions like Kunsthalle Wien & Tanzquartier Wien have their own admission fees and opening hours which can be checked on their respective websites before visiting.
A Must-Visit Destination
In conclusion, whether you’re an avid fan of modern art or curious about contemporary dance forms – or simply looking for a unique cultural experience during your visit to Vienna – the MuseumsQuartier with its diverse establishments such as Kunsthalle Wien & Tanzquartier Wien should definitely be on your itinerary! Not only does this complex offer enriching experiences but also provides a wonderful space to relax amidst beautiful architecture while enjoying Viennese coffee culture at one of its many cafes!
Frequently asked questions
What is the MQ (Kunsthalle & Tanzquartier) in Wien?
The MuseumsQuartier (MQ) in Vienna, Austria is one of the largest cultural quarters in the world. It’s home to a mix of large museums, smaller art galleries, and contemporary exhibition spaces. Two major components are Kunsthalle Wien and Tanzquartier Wien. Kunsthalle Wien is a space for contemporary art that showcases diverse international exhibitions while Tanzquartier Wien is an important center for contemporary dance and performance.
Where is MQ located and how can I get there?
The MuseumsQuartier is centrally located at Museumsplatz 1, 1070 Vienna. You can easily reach it by public transportation: U-Bahn lines U2 or U3 to “Volkstheater” station or Bus line 48A to “Dr.-Karl-Renner-Ring” stop. If you’re driving, there’s an underground parking garage available with entrance on Museumsstraße.
What are the opening hours of MQ?
The outdoor areas of the MuseumsQuartier are accessible all day long but individual institutions like Kunsthalle & Tanzquartier have their own operating hours which may vary depending on events or exhibitions happening at any given time. It’s recommended to check their official websites for current information before your visit.
What kind of exhibits can I expect at Kunsthalle & Tanzquartier?
Kunsthalle focuses on contemporary arts from visual arts to digital culture presenting both Austrian and international artists’ work through various thematic exhibitions throughout the year. On other hand,
Tanzquartier offers a platform for local as well as international dance artists through performances, workshops and research projects reflecting the diversity of contemporary dance and performance art.
What facilities are available at MQ for visitors?
Apart from the diverse range of cultural offerings, MuseumsQuartier also provides numerous cafes, restaurants and shops within its premises. It has free Wi-Fi throughout the complex. There’s also a central seating area known as “MQ Courtyard” where you can relax amidst installations by various artists. For families with children, there’s an onsite daycare center called Zoom Kindermuseum offering creative programs for kids.
