WOMEN ARTISTS OF THE ALBERTINA

ALBERTINA, VIENNA

In connection with its 250 th anniversary, the ALBERTINA Museum is presenting the first-ever exhibition devoted specifically to the women artists represented in its collection—thereby telling art history anew. Extending from the 15th century and the 1970s, this presentation shows that women have indeed decisively impacted art’s development despite how their contributions long remained invisible or were even forgotten.

Numerous works by draughtswomen and female printmakers were already acquired by Duke Albert and Archduchess Marie Christine. These will feature as part of a range of works from multiple eras, from medieval woodcuts produced at women’s convents to early feminist output—making clear how art history has always also been made by women.

In expansions to the collection in recent years, particularly additions to the holdings of contemporary art has seen additions that reflect female artistic stances and artists. However, this begs the question as to the museum’s historical holdings, which were collected against the backdrop of entirely different social circumstances, political situations, and power relations. This exhibition draws upon an ongoing research project concerning women artists in all areas of the collection initiated by the ALBERTINA Museum’s new Director General Ralph Gleis. The findings so far: astounding diversity and a considerable number of outstanding works that have so far been shown but rarely or not at all.

The exhibition is on view from 30 October 2026 until 17 January 2027.