The exhibition is dedicated to the conceptual artist Maximilian Prüfer (*1986). While raising questions about the role of nature in and as art, his artwork focuses on ecological, political, and sociocultural issues. The exhibition addresses two campaigns initiated by Mao Zedong (1893–1976) – the Four Pests Campaign of 1958 and Mao’s Gifts of 1968 – and discusses their effects in China. At the same time, it examines which questions the campaigns gave rise to in Austria, Europe, and around the world.
Weltmuseum Wien
The Weltmuseum Wien offers insights into cultural diversity, indigenous knowledge, and traditional craftsmanship, encouraging reflection on sustainability as well as the historical and colonial contexts behind many of its collection objects – including how they were acquired in colonial settings and the power dynamics involved.
Maximilian Prüfer: Fruits of Labour
18 May 2023 - 9 Jul 2024
Weltmuseum Wien, Heldenplatz, Wien, Österreich
Honey Pictures (series), Maximilian Prüfer, Photo print on Baryta, 2022 © Maximilian Prüfer
