The name Millstatt evokes associations with the mystical Middle Ages, knightly orders and monastic life, but also with summer retreats and the charm of historic villas. The town exudes a special flair that is characterised by both the idyllic lake landscape and the historic monastery buildings. Under the title “originally_touching!”, the Kunstverein millstART, in collaboration with the two curators Irina Katnik (galerie gugging) and Nina Katschnig (galerie gugging), is opening the doors to Art Brut in the 2025 theme year: an art world that focuses on the expression of the individual. The exhibition shows a representative selection of works by the Gugging Artists. This is complemented by works by their international colleagues and contemporary companions, who feel connected to the field in their own way and have discovered it for themselves.

The encounter with Art Brut is often something completely new and touching. What is touching is what is tangible, the creation and experience of art must be simple, unconditional, without ifs and buts. Art Brut is touching and “being touched” is probably one of the most important aspects that make art so essential, indeed what makes it so special. Art that speaks directly to the soul and is also a good, reassuring antithesis in these high-tech times with increasing AI.