The artist Gerwald Rockenschaub develops a platform that makes it possible to view the Beethoven Frieze at eye-level (three to five meters up). Klimt's Fries and Rockenschaub's platform should be considered independent works of art that play off each other. For Rockenschaub, the platform at the Secession is yet another step in a group of pieces that he has been developing since the late 1980s where, with the help of pedestals, benches, curtains and dividing walls, he directs visitors through the exhibition room and changes their forms of perception.
In the frieze room of the Secession from spring 2013, a sound installation by Scottish artist Susan Philipsz can be heard, which deals with the 34 meter-long work.
The Beethoven Fries was one of the main pieces in the great Beethoven Exhibition that was held at the Secession in 1902. Because of its eroticism and drastic depictions the Fries also provoked strong criticism, in addition to the admiration.
Close-up – Gustav Klimt ~ Gerwald Rockenschaub – Platform
23 March 2012 - 7 April 2013
As only a limited number of visitors are allowed to view the frieze at a time, there may be long waiting times. Groups (max. 25 people) at the top of each hour (registration: office@secession.at).
Sound Installation by Susan Philipsz
from spring 2013
Comments
Main exhibition rooms accessible by elevator. Access to all exhibition rooms: elevator. Elevator: door width: 80 cm, cabin depth: 105 cm, cabin width: 80 cm. Beethoven Frieze: 15 steps (escort required). Drawing Room: 24 steps.