Independent Space Index – Mapping the Scene
Day 1: What is an independent space?

Independent Space Index 2025 cooperates with Kunsthalle Wien to present a series of talks at Kunsthalle Wien Karlsplatz.

Join us to discuss topics behind the formation of scene identities and artistic positioning. Meet the operators of Vienna’s independent spaces and get to know the team behind Independent Space Index 2025. Pick up the printed festival guide, compare notes with fellow festival goers, and join others in a tour of the spaces after the talks.

Free admission

Following the talk

Guided tour: Mapping the Scene

13:45-16:00

What is an independent space?

The defining feature of an independent space or a network of spaces, might be that of a constant renegotiation of what an independent space is. It is not uncommon for a space to emerge as a response to an aspect that is missing or inaccessible, marking a site specificity to these definitions. This talk brings together member spaces that use the word museum in their name, or who operate outside a familiar exhibition room in their work.

museum in progress – Kaspar Mühlemann Hartl

Queer Museum Wien – Florian Ashka

Museum Nordwestbahnhof – Michael Zinganel

Palais des Beaux Arts – Seth Weiner

Independent Space Index

Independent Space Index is an initiative of Viennese independent spaces, aimed at increasing the visibility of independent artistic production, strengthening solidarity among like-minded cultural initiatives, and highlighting their contribution. At the heart of the festival is the open house weekend from May 30 to June 1. All participating spaces collectively invite visitors to explore a multitude of freely accessible exhibitions, combined with a dense programme of special events and exhibition openings. This format creates a yearly snapshot of a diverse scene, and provides a unique opportunity to experience it, in an intimate manner, at the locations directly involved with artistic production.

Sponsored by W24