Poster for the 1st Secession exhibition Gustav Klimt (1862-1918)

This striking poster, designed by Gustav Klimt, serves as an announcement for the first exhibition of the Vienna Secession. At the top, a powerful depiction of Theseus battling the Minotaur evokes classical mythology and heroic struggle. The intertwined figures and raw energy of the scene foreshadow the bold and innovative spirit of the Secession movement.

Below this dynamic tableau, an imposing warrior stands guard, holding a spear and a shield emblazoned with a fierce, stylized Gorgon face. This figure, rendered in bold outlines and rich reds, symbolizes protection and strength, perhaps representing the Secessions defense of new artistic ideals against the entrenched academic establishment. The architectural elements frame the scene, suggesting a formal announcement and the presentation of art.

The text, arranged in a clean, modern typeface, clearly states the purpose of the poster: I. KUNSTAUSSTELLUNG DER VEREINIGUNG BILDENDER KÜNSTLER OSTERREICHS SECESSION (First Art Exhibition of the Association of Visual Artists of Austria Secession). It also provides the opening and closing dates and the location: GARTENBAU GESELLSCHAFT (Horticultural Society).

The subtexts of this poster are manifold:

• Rebellion and Innovation: The choice of the Theseus and the Minotaur myth signifies a breaking free from oppressive constraints, mirroring the Secessions break from academic art traditions. The mythological struggle is a metaphor for artistic revolution.
• Strength and Authority: The warrior figure with the Gorgon shield suggests the Secessions firm stance and self-assurance in presenting its new aesthetic. The Gorgons terrifying visage can be interpreted as a warning to those who would oppose their artistic vision.
• Classical Inspiration, Modern Execution: While drawing from classical themes, Klimts style is distinctly modern, characterized by its graphic quality, stylized forms, and decorative elements. This fusion represents the Secessions aim to integrate contemporary art with historical artistic traditions.
• Unity and Purpose: The Vereinigung bildender Künstler Österreichs (Association of Visual Artists of Austria) proclaims a collective effort. The organized presentation of information and imagery underscores the groups unified objective to promote and exhibit new art.
• The Birth of a Movement: As the poster for the first exhibition, it carries the weight of a beginning. It announces not just an event, but the inception of a significant cultural movement that would shape Austrian art history.