Kunstpavillon, Innsbruck

The Art Pavilion (Kunstpavillon), located in Innsbruck, is an important exhibition space dedicated to displaying the works of artists from Tyrol. Situated in the picturesque Innsbruck Hofgarten, this pavilion has a long history, with its origins dating back to 1564 when it was known as the "lower summer house." Despite earlier suggestions in 1902 to convert the summer house into an art exhibition venue, it wasn't until 1951 that this idea materialized under the architectural guidance of Otto Mayr.

The Art Pavilion, which became an exhibition space, also serves as the headquarters for the Tyrolean Artists' Association, established in 1946. Besides hosting exhibitions, it houses the association's office and archive. Architecturally, it's a single-story structure with a square layout and a unique flat pyramid roof made of sheet metal. Notable features include three large arched window doors in the center, flanked by smaller arched windows, and rustic blocks defining the building's edges. A 1951 renovation added a skylight to the approximately 175 square meters interior, along with small adjoining rooms. The pavilion is a protected monument within the Hofgarten complex.

Each year, the Art Pavilion hosts around five exhibitions. Its programming primarily stems from submissions reviewed by an expert jury through an open, international tender process, ensuring a diverse representation of both local and international artists. This approach encourages a dynamic exchange between regional and international artistic communities.

Furthermore, from 1952 to 1963, the Art Pavilion was the venue for the Austrian Graphics Competition, marking a significant period in its history as a hub for artistic excellence and cultural exchange. The commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic talents and fostering dialogues across borders highlights the pavilion's enduring importance in the cultural scene of Innsbruck and beyond.