In Villach

Art instead of concrete gray in public spaces

Lisa Maria Wagner realized the idea in Gerbergasse. The next work of art will adorn the bridge.(Bild: Karin Wernig)

Street artists use various techniques to draw works of art in public spaces. The city of Villach has been offering artists large areas for several years.

If you walk around Villach with your eyes open, you can discover art: from the "View into the Drau" on the lower Drau bridge to designed facades on the Khevenhüllerschule, Gerbergasse or MS Völkendorf, a wide variety of motifs adorn the otherwise bare walls.

Projects implemented
It was also the city of Villach that initiated the largest street art project in the country to date in 2019. The 16-metre-high gas tower of the sewage treatment plant in St. Agathen was approved for design. Artist Pia Daliz designed the 600-square-metre surface with intertwined faces to demonstrate versatility.

In 2020, Villach then made a commitment to the urban art form; the graffiti wall surfaces were tripled.

"Villach promotes art in public spaces and is happy to provide space for street art," says Mayor Günther Albel, who offers artists a real treat.

Art on the bridge
Now the north side of the CCV pedestrian bridge is to be painted. It is one of Villach's most popular photo motifs and is seen by thousands of passers-by every day. A jury will select a winning project from the proposals submitted. Ideas for the design of a 220 meter and an 87 meter long area can be submitted by e-mail to [e-mail] by 20 May. In addition to the realization, the winner will receive 10,000 euros in prize money.