about
The SALONPARCOURS combines experimental art, classic salon culture, underground elements, and participatory movements. The program includes music, readings, visual installations, performances, painting, lectures, architecture, and more. The salons take place in various, mostly private locations—such as living rooms, workshops, studios, gardens, backyards, or garages. The trail culminates in a communal get-together. The journey from salon to salon is conceived as a trail—a performative and locally historical stroll, immersing visitors in spaces that are not normally easily accessible.
SALONPARCOURS was initiated in Vienna in 2017. Katrin Woelger is responsible for its artistic conception and direction.With more than 30 editions in various Viennese districts, the format has developed into a continuous platform for contemporary art and is increasingly opening itself up to international collaborations.
We walk down the street. Then we go into a house and ring a doorbell. The door opens, and we go in. There, people sing, play, dance, or do something else. We watch. This lasts about 20 minutes. Sometimes shorter, sometimes longer. Afterward, we go back outside. Someone tells us, what it used to be like here, what stories there were here, about neighbors, houses, or what's happening—in the past, today, or sometime later. Everyone can join in and share their own stories. Those who participate can win a prize. We continue walking and reach another street. There, we visit a garden or another house, or a workshop, or an attic, or a basement, or a garage. There's always a surprise. We visit three or four different places. Then it's over. Anyone who wants to can stay. You can talk and chat with the other viewers and the artists. There's water, juice, or wine. Those who go home have heard and seen a lot. Later, they remember that they were already invited at these places.