Textile Kultur Haslach is Back and Brighter Than Ever
After a year's hiatus, Austria's premier textile destination is set to bloom once again. The picturesque town of Haslach will transform into a vibrant hub of textile artistry from 14 July to 1 August 2025, as the beloved Textil Kultur Haslach Summer Symposium returns with its most colourful iteration yet.
This year's theme, COLOURFUL, promises to infuse every corner of the three-week celebration with chromatic joy. The programme showcases a range of exhibitions that demonstrate how colour transcends cultural and artistic boundaries in textile work.
Textile artwork from the series Thread Work (Series 1) by Arezou Shayesteh Sadafian.
The symposium's crown jewels are a quartet of distinct yet complementary exhibitions, each interpreting colour through different lenses. 'Colourful Elements' features Iranian artist Arezou Shayesteh Sadafian's thread paintings - works that emerge from mathematical principles yet pulse with organic life. Her background in physics informs an analytical approach to colour theory, creating abstract compositions that challenge traditional perceptions of textile as medium.
Costume example (detail) from the Life Ball Collection by Gery Keszler
In the historic church tower, 'In Abundance' unveils treasures from Gery Keszler's legendary Life Ball collection. For 26 years, Keszler transformed Vienna City Hall into Europe's most dazzling charity spectacular, amassing costumes that tell stories of unforgettable performances and celebrities. These theatrical pieces reveal sophisticated manufacturing methods and opulent colours - a textile treasure trove that reflects Keszler's own journey into weaving.
Santiago, 2022. From the Facades Collage Series by Delphine Léger
French artist Delphine Léger completes the triumvirate with 'Urban Fabric,' showcasing collages that explore urban diversity and facades. Vienna-based since 2006, Léger brings a multidisciplinary background in textile design, theatre, and music to her pattern-rich explorations of metropolitan life.
Gabiroba (Detail), Germaine Sijstermans
Adding another dimension, Dutch artist Germaine Sijstermans presents 'Gabiroba,' a spatial sound and thread installation where visitors can wander, listen, and daydream among transparent spaces crafted from thread, stones, and paper.
The internationally acclaimed weavers' market also returns on 26-27 July, transforming Haslach's historic 'auf der Stelzn' district into a treasure trove of handwoven textiles. Awarded ART AUSTRIA's seal of quality and consistently ranked Austria's top arts and crafts market, this weekend gathering offers collectors and enthusiasts access to exceptional pieces from skilled artisans.
Running alongside, the Faserzone materials fair (25-27 July) provides the perfect opportunity to source premium yarns and accessories - essential for any textile practitioner's toolkit.
Beyond the exhibitions and markets, the symposium offers intensive 5-day workshops led by internationally renowned instructors. Whether you're drawn to traditional weaving techniques or contemporary textile art, these masterclasses provide invaluable hands-on learning experiences.
For textile enthusiasts planning summer travels, Haslach offers an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in colour, craft, and community. Mark your calendars for this spectacular return to form.
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Further Information:
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Image Credits:
Lead Image: Textile artwork from the series Thread Work (Series 1) by Arezou Shayesteh Sadafian.
All other images as credited in photo captions.