The Salzburg Festival and its contribution to Austria's identity formation in public perception from 1945 to 1955
On the occasion of the commemorative years of 1945 and 1955, the Salzburg Festival presents a compilation of photographic and documentary material that demonstrates the influence of culture on social developments in turbulent times. The focus is on the role the Salzburg Festival played in the identity formation of a new Austria within its sphere of influence.
After the horrors of National Socialism and the liberation from Nazi rule, art and culture served as a catalyst to compensate for an improved national self-esteem; they made a decisive contribution to redefining Austrian identity and reinventing oneself amidst the ruins. In this regard, the Salzburg Festival offers diverse opportunities for identification and unites tradition and vision.
On the one hand, the photographs document the liberators' perspective through the lens of the United States Information Service. On the other hand, they offer an insider's view, for example, through the camera perspective of Austrian photographers. Soon, American lifestyles blend with Austrian traditions. Iconic festival images solidify into myths. Political statements reinforce the importance of art and cultural exchange. Persistent stereotypes emerge across this epochal divide, shaping the image of Austria as a cultural land to this day.
An exhibition by the Salzburg Festival Archives in cooperation with Salzburg Global · Schloss Leopoldskron to be held in the Max Reinhardt Library
July 20 to August 31, 2025
Concept: Margarethe Lasinger, Oliver Rathkolb, Gabriele Straschil
