Bloody enjoyment of art: Nitsch 'final in the Weinviertel enthusiastic!

Bloody enjoyment of art: Nitsch 'final in the Weinviertel enthusiastic!

Hermann Nitsch, who is considered one of the most formative artists of the Austrian present, found a worthy highlight of his artistic career on June 8, 2025 with the posthumous staging of his legendary "6-day game" in the Weinviertel. Nitsch, who died on April 18, 2022 at the age of 83, is known for his provocative performance art, which often includes Christian symbols and ritual-like actions. His works address human existence and require an intensive examination of the senses and emotions of the audience. Kleine Zeitung reports that over 350 people took part in the final show, in contrast to earlier performances in the 1990s, which of the resistance Animal rights activists and the church were accompanied.

The "6-day game" is designed as an expansion of monumental works of art that includes all five senses and thus represents a unique, aesthetic ritual of livelihood glorification. It goes back to an idea that Hermann Nitsch developed in 1957, inspired by Richard Wagner and Alexander Scriabin. The first performance of the "6-day game" took place in 1998 and was characterized by political controversy and protests. However, the current staging, which was completed in a second version shortly before Nitsch's death, is less extreme. So no serious injuries or shocks were reported. During the performance, the soundscape that conductor Andrea Cusumano created with a 92-member orchestra impressed and strengthened the intensity of the representations. According to Nitsch Foundation, all actions of the O.M. Theater's partial realizations of this game.

rituals and performances

The performance included impressive, shocking scenes, such as actors who drank blood and were given intestine on their body. The highlight of the staging, in which fish was slit and offal stuffed into a pig's carcass, left a lasting impression among the spectators. Incense and the smell of blood shaped the atmosphere and clarified Nitsch's intent to pull the viewers deep into its world.

For the final on Whit Monday, a saucer with promocoche Max Stiegl is planned, in which parts of a pig are processed. This culinary component is intended to bring a further dimension into artistic experience and, in this context, maintain the tradition of the "orgies mysteries theater". Nevertheless, the future of the theater remains uncertain, since Nitsch's widow has explained that another "6-day game" was not feasible.

a legacy of importance

Hermann Nitsch was born in Vienna on August 29, 1938 and is considered one of those artists who co -founded Vienna Actionism. As an action formator, painter, composer and stage designer, he has repeatedly redefined the boundaries of art with his actions and installations. His works can be found not only in Austria, but also internationally, and retrospectives give visitors a deep insight into his artistic development. Nitsch Foundation documents the immense relevance and the influence of its work, which often address tragic with raw meat, blood and intestines.

The historical importance of the "6-day game" and Nitsch's entire work represent a fascinating chapter in art history that also lives on after his death and inspires new generations.