Curatorial Note
Kaws: The Story Behind the Exhibition
Staged inside the distinguished galleries of Albertina Modern, 'Kaws: Art and Comics' brings into sharp focus the compelling artistic vision of Kaws. As one of the highlight presentations of the cultural calendar, this exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable encounter with key masterworks and pivotal creative breakthroughs. Visit the KAWS. Art & Comic exhibition to see how comics, pop culture, and fine art come together. Notice the evolution of KAWS' characters and the mix of street art and modern influences.
The curatorial narrative examines the aesthetic evolution of Kaws, highlighting the nuanced handling of light, palette, and spatial rhythm. By assembling rare loans alongside signature works, the presentation reveals how the artist continually reshaped European visual culture.
Surrounded by the monumental architecture of Albertina Modern, the installation establishes a luminous, contemplative atmosphere. Each gallery room has been thoughtfully paced to provide art enthusiasts and curious travelers with an inspiring and immersive museum experience.
Curatorial Perspective
Visit the KAWS. Art & Comic exhibition to see how comics, pop culture, and fine art come together. Notice the evolution of KAWS' characters and the mix of street art and modern influences.
Curatorial Premise
A comprehensive exploration of the visual revolution and aesthetic mastery of Kaws.
“This exhibition invites audiences to look beyond traditional boundaries and discover the rich emotional depth of Kaws's creations.”
AM
Albertina Modern Curatorial Department
Chief Curatorial Team
Curated Room-by-Room Walkthrough
Thematic Journey & Exhibition Rooms
01 Origins
Formative Years & Early Vision
Early exploratory works and seminal influences that laid the groundwork for future mastery.
02 Core Masterpieces
The Height of Mastery
The definitive mid-career triumphs where technical virtuosity and emotional power reached their zenith.
03 Monumental Vista
Enduring Legacy & Dialogue
The lasting resonance of this artistic journey set in dialogue with the permanent collections of Albertina Modern.
Key Highlights
Featured Exhibition Masterpieces
2026 Featured Masterpiece: Kaws: Art and Comics
Curated Exhibition Highlight
The centerpiece of the exhibition, epitomizing the formal command and expressive brilliance of Kaws.
Artistic Study Preparatory Studies & Cartoons
Archival & Curatorial Selection
Intimate preparatory drawings revealing the artist's structural methodology and draftsmanship.
Permanent Setting Exhibition Gallery Installation
Gallery & Spatial Perspective
The luminous curatorial staging inside the historic gallery chambers of Albertina Modern.
OFFICIAL TICKETS & ADMISSION
Select Your Tickets & Timeslot
WHAT YOU WILL SEE
Key Masterpieces & Exhibition Highlights
- ✓Entry ticket
- ✓Audio guide
Practical Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting Albertina Modern
Opening Hours
Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
Last entry 45 min before closing Public Transit
Metro / Bus station nearby
Recommended Duration
approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
Average visit duration The Museum
Explore Museum Guide & Permanent Collection → Albertina Modern
Housed inside Vienna's old Künstlerhaus on the city's famous Ringstrasse, the Albertina Modern made its long-awaited opening in 2020 after three years of renovation to the grand 19th-century building. Unlike the nearby Albertina Museum, the Albertina Modern puts major emphasis on modern and contemporary Austrian art through both its permanent and temporary collections. It provides a dedicated space for the Essl Collection, which was acquired in 2017. It also houses an impressive amount of international art, with extensive German and American collections.
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