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Art, according to collector Werner Trenker, is a perpetual subject for discussion

Wiener Neustadt's entrepreneur launches extensive presentations, similar to the ongoing Preschny showcase.

Art, according to collector Werner Trenker, is an endless wellspring of discussion.
Art, according to collector Werner Trenker, is an endless wellspring of discussion.

Art, according to collector Werner Trenker, is a perpetual subject for discussion

In the heart of Wiener Neustadt, the Museum St. Peter is currently hosting an exhibition that's stirring quite a buzz. The focus of this exhibition is the art collection of Werner Trenker, a name becoming increasingly visible in the art world.

Trenker, not associated with a private museum, supplements his collection through visits to galleries and art fairs. His partner, Sonja Zsolnai-Kasztler, is an active participant in his art endeavours. The exhibition at Museum St. Peter includes works from Trenker's own collection, showcasing a diverse range of art pieces.

The exhibition is a tribute to the work of Markus Prachensky, one of Austria's most important abstract painters after the war. Prachensky's widow, Brigitte Prachensky, has generously supplemented the exhibition with loaned works from the Prachensky estate.

Trenker's art engagement began around 2010, with a unique project involving the design of diabetic product packaging by artists. Since then, he has been actively acquiring artworks, sometimes making arrangements with artists to purchase a certain number of works in exchange for long-term payments.

Trenker's mission is to open art to the people, both regionally and beyond. He sees art as an endless source of conversation for diverse people, fostering connections and conversations among his employees by displaying art in the premises of his company.

In a notable move, Trenker has a planned project in Wiener Neustadt, aiming to make it the second art capital of Lower Austria. The city is already home to the successful Museum St. Peter, which previously featured an exhibition of Hermann Nitsch in 2023.

Looking ahead, a large presentation of Arnulf Rainer's cross-pictures is planned in Vienna Stephansdom by Trenker in February 2026. This ambitious project is being organised by the Foto Arsenal under the direction of the German art historian and artistic director Felix Hoffmann.

Trenker and his partner are active in museum support circles, including the board of the Vienna mumok, further solidifying their role in the Austrian art scene. As Trenker's art collection continues to grow and evolve, there's no doubt that he will continue to make a significant impact on the world of art.

The exhibition at Museum St. Peter runs until November 2, providing art enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Trenker's collection and the work of Markus Prachensky. Don't miss out on this captivating display of artistry.

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