The Karikaturmuseum Krems is special - special in its architecture, special in its history and especially special in its objectives and exhibitions.

With the Erich-Sokol-Prize and the promotion of up-and-coming artists as part of the international fellowship program AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Niederösterreich, the Karikaturmuseum Krems positions itself as a relevant institution for critically minded contemporary art.

In other words: at the Karikaturmuseum Krems you can expect

• amusing and thought-provoking encounters in group and individual exhibitions on caricature. For example, with original works by Manfred Deix, Gerhard Haderer, Bruno Haberzettl, IRONIMUS, Erich Sokol, or Michael Pammesberger.
   
• the art of the fine line and subtle humor. In years past, we have presented Austrian illustrator Paul Flora, the former caricaturist for the Wiener Zeitung Wolfgang Ammer, or Austrian author and illustrator Luis Murschetz.
   
• varied and interactive exhibitions for the entire family. Christine Nöstlinger, Janosch, and Erwin Moser have delighted both younger and older audiences in recent years.
   
• international greats of the scene. Humorous cartoonist Mordillo, Lucky Luke artist Achdé, arguably the most famous Disney artist Carl Barks, socially critical caricaturist Marie Marcks, and yes, even filmmaker Federico Fellini, are just some of the many renowned artists you have already encountered in Austria’s only museum for satirical art.
   
• up-and-coming artists and the breath of fresh air they inject into the cosmos of art and humor.

And what else? In partnership with the State Collections of Lower Austria, the Karikaturmuseum Krems is dedicated to the scholarly research and presentation of the collection of original satirical graphic works and caricatures. An extensive educational program with offerings tailored for specific audiences ensures that all age groups will enjoy a visit to the museum. 

“Caricature” has been recognized as an artistic genre since the sixteenth century and is derived from the Italian verb caricare. “Caricare” means “to load, to exaggerate” and is derived from the Latin word for cart, carrus.

Initially, primarily portrait caricatures were created. In the second half of the eighteenth century, a greater awareness of caricature’s function and role in society began to take hold and it subsequently evolved into a highly effective medium for critique and shaping public opinion. The emergence of political caricature was closely tied to freedom of the press and freedom of expression and the possibility of reproduction.

Even today, caricature is indispensable for wide-ranging political reporting. It still excels at initiating discourse and promoting debate of social issues—as an “editorial cartoon,” as an illustrated lead article on current events, as an art form, and as pointed commentary. All of these get to the heart of complex issues.