MY MUSEUM. My art treasures

86 pupils from Allgemeinen Sonderschule Krems, Krems Polytechnic School and Oberbergern Primary School reinterpreted selected works of art from the exhibition "Art Treasures. From the Baroque to the Present" at the Landesgalerie Niederösterreich in their own works. The pupils' creative works were on display in the exhibition and available on the multimedia guide.

The students developed moving sculptures based on tableaux vivants (living pictures), which emerged at the end of the 18th century. Through intensive engagement with the artworks - art viewing, conversations, discussions and research - the children and teenagers chose different artistic and performative approaches to breathe life into their artwork and develop their own interpretations. The traditional images were re-contextualized and contemporary themes were incorporated. At their own request, some of the pupils from the Sonderschule Krems created overpaintings and their own paintings based on the artworks.

The students' profound experiences and creative approach to the artworks not only contributed to the individual development of each student, but the integration of children and teenagers from different educational institutions created an inclusive learning environment that emphasized the value of diversity and promoted mutual appreciation. The resulting moving sculptures and overpaintings reflect the pupils' personal interpretations and are a testament to creativity and teamwork. The project enabled the students to actively participate in the cultural life of the museum. This holistic experience illustrates how education through artistic processes not only imparts knowledge, but also promotes important values such as sustainability, inclusion and participation, which are essential for a vibrant and just society.

On May 26, the pupils presented their artworks to their parents, relatives and other school classes in the Landesgalerie Niederösterreich, surrounded by the original works of art. Provincial Councillor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister, representing Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, and School Quality Manager Andrea Strohmayer, representing Education Director Fritthum, also attended the event.

The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research.