Artistry of Everyday Objects – Carl Auböck Goes On Display at MAK Vienna

The MAK Museum in Vienna presents ICONIC AUBÖCK: A Workshop Shapes Austria’s Concept of Design, featuring nearly 400 exhibits, including unique items and prototypes that highlight the workshop’s impact on modern design.

Located in Vienna’s Bernardgasse, the Carl Auböck workshop has been a cornerstone of Austrian craftsmanship, blending traditional techniques with modernist influences. From everyday objects like corkscrews, chess sets, and clocks to avant-garde sculptures, the exhibition showcases how Auböck designs transformed interiors into playgrounds for artistic expression.

At the center of the exhibition is Carl Auböck II (1900–1957), whose time at the Bauhaus in Weimar under Johannes Itten deeply shaped his artistic vision. The influence of the Bauhaus is evident in Auböck’s innovative design language, which melds organic forms, minimalistic aesthetics, and surprising material combinations.

The exhibition also explores Carl Auböck II’s collaborative work with his wife, sculptor and textile artist Mara Uckunowa. Her abstract fabric designs from the 1940s and a fabric-covered magazine rack highlight her innovative contributions to the workshop’s legacy.

It traces the evolution of the workshop through the leadership of Carl Auböck III (1924–1993) and Carl Auböck IV (*1954), who brought international acclaim to the brand. From collaborations with Hermès and Tiffany & Co. to the workshop’s presence in major museums such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, the Auböck legacy continues to thrive.

On view until January 6, 2025, the exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the artistry, innovation, and cultural significance of one of Austria’s most influential design workshops.

For more information, visit MAK Vienna website.