Erwin Wurm

Erwin Wurm (born 1954) is one of Austria's most well-known contemporary artists. His works are featured in major international collections of contemporary art. Wurm often focuses on everyday objects or the human body, presenting them in altered forms as sculptures – seemingly inflated, very slim, or only in fragments. His art questions societal norms and consumer culture, often offering an ironic take on modern life. Through this, he encourages viewers to perceive the world from a different perspective.

Wurm's sculptures are made from materials such as bronze, ceramic, wood, and marble.

The artwork Respect created in 2020 by Erwin Wurm at the Naturhotel Forsthofgut

Erwin Wurm „Respect“ (2020)

Portoro Marble

The sculpture Respect (2020) from one of Wurm's latest series features an oversized sausage made from polished marble, its form reminiscent of ancient statues. Alongside the two sculptures, two photographs are also on display in the Workation Room, provided on loan by the Salzburg gallery Thaddaeus Ropac.

the artwork Big Suit created 2010/2016 by Erwin Wurm

ERWIN WURM "BIG SUIT" (2010/16)

Aluminium, paint

Positioned right at the entrance of the Forsthofgut, Erwin Wurm’s monumental sculpture Big Suit (2010/2016) welcomes guests with its striking presence. The piece depicts an oversized, empty suit, playing with proportions and space by transforming a garment typically associated with the human body into a massive, almost formless structure. By omitting a visible figure within the suit, Wurm challenges notions of identity, power, and presence. The representation of a “headless” suit wearer is characteristic of Wurm’s ongoing exploration of the concept of sculpture and his critical perspective on society.