About
Since its founding in 2001, WestLicht has become a central venue for the presentation and discussion of photography in Austria. Through exhibitions, events and publications, the photographic media are explored and communicated in their diversity.
In addition to a permanent exhibition of photographic equipment and milestones from all eras of camera technology, changing presentations open up a view of historical and current positions in photographic image culture. The program includes monographic exhibitions of iconic photographers such as Alexander Rodchenko, Edward Steichen, Vivian Maier, Ernst Haas, Lisette Modell, and Bruce Davidson, young positions and important but hitherto little-present oeuvres from the history of austrian photography, including Alfons Schilling - Beyond Photography or Padhi Frieberger. Photographic Art 1950-2000, and themed shows such as World Press Photo, In Our Time. Magnum 1947-1987 or The Polaroid Project - At the Intersection of Art and Technology.
LOCATION
Just across the street from WestLicht was once the site of the first building of the Graphische Bundeslehr- und Versuchsanstalt founded in 1888. The district today is a favourite neighbourhood among creatives and with a flourishing infrastructure of camera stores, printers and framers is perfectly fitted for the needs of photographers.
ARCHITECTURE
WestLicht is located in a former glass factory which was then used as a photo studio. The conversion into an exhibition space was carried out by architects Eichinger oder Knechtl in 2001. Specially designed display cases and a lighting system were created to emphasize the minimalist space and accentuate the objects.
WHO
The foundation of WestLicht was initiated by Peter Coeln who currently serves as the chairman of the Verein zur Förderung der Fotografie (association for the promotion of photography) WestLicht. He counts among the most important collectors of camera technology in the world.