Archaeological discoveries of earthenware jugs, bowls and tiles date back to the Middle Ages. As early as 1492, “Gmundner” ceramics was mentioned in documents. Centuries of ceramics in Gmunden, and the Salzkammergut, produced a large number of craftsmen and artists who gained international recognition and appreciation. Gmunden has set itself the goal of returning the topic of ceramics to its historically centuries-old significant role and promoting it in a renewed way. The lake Traunsee holiday and leisure region has positioned itself as a cultural hotspot in Austria, with many cultural activities from customs and traditions to contemporary arts and highlights.
Every year in August Gmunden becomes the Mecca of ceramic arts, presenting a mix of contemporary ceramics; ceramists from Austria and abroad exhibit in Gmunden’s galleries and temporary locations, intensifying the focus on contemporary ceramic art. The biannual Ceramic Symposium brings European ceramic artists together with international experts for a 5 week residency.
The K-Hof Museum offers a chronological cross section of Gmunden and the Traunsee district’s history from geological beginnings to 21st century. The ceramic theme is a constant thread throughout, with special exhibitions on history and contemporary ceramics changing regularly.
ph. credit: Wolfgang Ladin
