ARTIST - COLLECTOR - PUBLIC The Hilger Collection

This international exhibition has showcased the private collection of the Vienna-based gallerist and contemporary art collector, Ernst Hilger. Hilger has held many roles in the art world, including as president of both FEAGA (the Federation of European Art Galleries Association) and the Association of Austrian Modern Art Galleries, and he has also been instrumental in establishing galleries as important partners for museums and collectors. The Hilger Collection not only covers 21^st century contemporary art but also deals with the modernist period and various international art movements of the 20^th century. This will also be reflected in the exhibition, which will present a selection of works by 38 artists from around the globe, some already internationally established, others now emerging. 

The concept of the exhibition reflects the wide-ranging activities undertaken in association with the collection, and the personal approach of the collector. The collection goes beyond established names and conventional geographical territories to include countries that are often absent from the contemporary art map. Its activities include representing artists at important international art fairs, including Art Basel, in Hilger's own galleries (Galerie Ernst Hilger, HilgerBROTKunsthalle and Hilger NEXT); and collaboration with guest curators, organising art residencies and supporting art production.

This exhibition seeks to present a story about supporting art, strengthening the bonds between the collector, the artist and the general public, and raising awareness of the role played by art in society.