Jakob Lena Knebl: Summer Retreat

Identity at the intersection of history, fashion, and mythology
Jakob Lena Knebl's work explores identity in relation to themes drawn from history, art history, fashion, religion, and mythology. The transmedial conceptual artist employs diverse means of expression in her interpretations, which are as varied as the subjects she explores.

She works independently and collaborates with Ashley Hans Scheirl. She combines artistic practice with curatorial work, rethinking the presentation of museum collections with Markus Pires Mata. A defining characteristic of her approach is her continuous inclusion of contemporary artists in exhibitions. As a professor of transmedial art at the University of Applied Arts Vienna, Knebl regularly integrates students into her projects. Inspired by art and design history, as well as sociocultural phenomena, Knebl develops transmedial works focusing on sculpture and space, which she refers to as "spaces of desire." These works bring together hybrid forms and references, addressing questions about the construction and transformation of identity. Her artistic practice unfolds through a transversal approach across media, genre, materiality, context, and identity.

 A surreal parallel universe at the Marmorschlössl
Jakob Lena Knebl has transformed the Marmorschlössl, Empress Sisi's cottage in Bad Ischl, into a stage of sorts, presenting various protagonists—both figures and objects—in a manner that makes it seem as if the audience is moving through a parallel universe. Knebl herself is undoubtedly part of this universe, as it ultimately represents her ongoing exploration of her multifaceted personality. In the grand salon of what was once Empress Elisabeth’s retreat, Knebl created a dreamlike, surreal installation that draws on works by the artist Hans Baldung Grien, among other references. Visitors will also encounter Knebl's personal interpretation of Edgar Degas's dancers, as well as a highly distinctive staging of a swan, recalling the presence of such an animal in "Sisi's" bedchamber.

On the upper floor, Knebl presents her own works, some of which are fabric-based, as well as pieces by students. Outside, Knebl has created interpretations of the hut of Baba Yaga, a mythological figure from Slavic folklore.

Marmorschlössl, Bad Ischl, Austria