A Must-Visit for Contemporary Art Lovers: The Heidi Horten Collection

For those passionate about contemporary art, the Heidi Horten Collection in Vienna is an absolute gem. Opened in June 2022, this museum provides a remarkable overview of 20th and 21st-century art, featuring iconic works from classical modernism to the present day.

The collection was meticulously assembled by Heidi Goëss-Horten (1941-2022), who began curating her impressive selection of paintings, sculptures, and prints after the passing of her husband, Helmut Horten, in 1987. Uninfluenced by fleeting trends, her acquisitions were guided by a deep personal connection to the works. Over time, she cultivated a museum-worthy collection featuring luminaries such as Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, Emil Nolde, and Erich Heckel.

By the 1990s, Goëss-Horten expanded her collection to include major works by Pop Art icons like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Her interest in contemporary artists also led to the inclusion of groundbreaking pieces by Damien Hirst, Niki de Saint Phalle, Sigmar Polke, and Gerhard Richter. Today, visitors can not only admire paintings and graphic works but also explore an evolving sculpture park that adds another dimension to the experience.

I’ve shared images of some of the most thought-provoking and captivating pieces from my visit. The museum’s layout makes it easily accessible, allowing for a rich yet manageable 1-2 hour immersion—or longer if you wish to linger. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious, the Heidi Horten Collection is a must-visit destination in Vienna!