Mission

AIR takes a process-oriented and interdisciplinary approach. Our program reflects artistic expressions that are characterized by a comprehensive humanity and a dialogue between artists. AIR is not interested in conquering the art market or being limited by other success-oriented criteria.

Klaus Krobath, Head of Artist in Residence

About

The AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Lower Austria program in Krems promotes international cultural exchange. It offers artists from the fields of visual arts, architecture, music and literature the opportunity to live and work temporarily in Lower Austria and to explore the local cultural landscape. At the same time, AIR organises stays abroad for Lower Austrian artists within the framework of an international exchange program.

In cooperation with partner institutions (Province of Lower Austria - Department of Art and Culture, Galerie Stadtpark Krems, Kunsthalle Krems, Karikaturmuseum Krems, NÖ Festival und Kino GmbH, ORTE - Architekturnetzwerk NÖ, Unabhängiges Literaturhaus NÖ), around 45 fellows are selected each year, invited to Krems and supported and curated during their stay.

AIR connects artists with art and cultural institutions in Lower Austria and Vienna, supports exhibitions, concerts, readings, workshops, art projects in public space and reflection on their working methods. Different artistic approaches serve as a basis for discussions, debates and interdisciplinary thinking, contributing to internationalisation and cultural exchange.

Atelier

History

The studio apartments were opened in the attic of a former carpet factory in Krems in 2000 on the initiative of the province of Lower Austria. This laid the foundation for the AIR program to promote international art and cultural exchange.

Since 2006, the program has been managed by Kunstmeile Krems Betriebs GmbH and is a member of res artis, an international network of artist residencies.

By 2023, around 1000 guest artists from over 70 countries had taken part in the AIR program in Krems.