Erwin Wurm: Experience abstract humanity in ceramics in Gmunden!

Erwin Wurm: Experience abstract humanity in ceramics in Gmunden!

Gmunden, Österreich - In the picturesque city of Gmunden, the internationally celebrated artist Erwin Wurm presented his latest sculpture series "Bad People". In cooperation with the Gmundner Keramik Manufaktur, 21 unique ceramic works of art were created in this framework that question the limits of human. From June 8, 2025 to January 31, 2026, the exhibition can be seen, the worms vision of absurdity and human form is discussed and the visitors captivated.

The new works consist of two main groups: 14 abstract heads and 7 stand figures, all of which were designed from elements of the Gmundner tableware. Wurm combines everyday objects such as pens, lemons, cucumbers and sausages with the ceramic material to create an idiosyncratic design language. These new interpretations make the viewers think about their own perception of humanity and open up a dialogue about absurdity.

a game with material and shape

The sculptures are characterized by a tense contrast between glazed and unglazed surfaces. Many works are covered with colorful glazes, some of which have been poured, which underlines the unconventional character of the work. This color scheme ensures a striking contrast to the rough, unglazed parts of the figures and conveys the manufacturing method and the design process of the artist. Wurm emphasizes not only the physical materiality of the sound, but also the design options that this medium offers, which experiences a renaissance in contemporary art.

Erwin Wurm, born in Bruck an der Mur in 1954, is not only known for his sculptures. On the occasion of his 70th birthday, he is devoted to a comprehensive retrospective in Albertina Modern, which can be seen until March 9, 2025. The exhibition includes various art forms such as drawings, photographs and videos that address the paradox and absurd in our world. Examples such as the "Fat Car" or the "Narrow House" challenge the social norms and invite visitors to an active examination of art. [3]

The meaning of Wurm's work

worms are not only innovative art, but also challenge the limits of traditional art forms. In his “One Minute Sculptures”, visitors have the opportunity to become part of art. These performative elements enable direct interaction and expand the concept of sculpture and representation. Wurm manages to address deeper social issues with ease and humor and to encourage the audience to think.

The exhibition "Erwin Wurm: Bad People" in Gmunden and the retrospective in Albertina Modern show impressively how contemporaries can redefine artistic media and question the perception of art and humanity in our modern world. leadersnet reports that Wurm leaves an unmistakable handwriting with this connection between everyday object and art.

For all those who confront the human search with their own ideas of human searches, worms are an absolute must. A visit to the exhibition could be an inspiring examination of the absurd and at the same time a journey through the creative soul of an exceptional artist. Gmunden becomes the stage of an extraordinary artistic dialogue with “Bad People”. [2]