PressWool. Silk. Resistance.

7 February – 14 Juni 2026

Grafik/Graphic: Bureau Sandra Doeller © Museum Angewandte Kunst

Rugs, carpets, and tapestries can embody many different forms of resistance. This exhibition presensts international works by contemporary artists who explore political dissent, individual and collective resilience, and practices of refusal. Their resistance is directed at systems of authority and power perceived as illegitimate, as well as at traditionalism, discrimination, racism, trauma, and environmental destruction. The artists’ rugs, carpets, and tapestries therefore become bold vehicles for sociopolitical critique.

With equal radicalism, many of the artists push beyond the conventions of the flat textile surface. They explore the possibilities of three-dimensionality, evolving into textile sculptures and immersive environments whose affective qualities engage directly with the conditions of contemporary life.

The exhibition features selected works by the following artists:
Faig Ahmed, Diedrick Brackens, Johannah Herr, Jan Kath, Alexandra Kehayoglou, William Kentridge, Baseera Khan, Noelle Mason, Otobong Nkanga, Tobias Rehberger, Erin M. Riley, Tsherin Sherpa, Rose Stach, Nasan Tur and Jeroen van den Bogaert.

Curator: Dr Katharina Weiler

Press release
Exhibition booklet

Press Images

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