Round 4: October
2026–February 2027What this call is about
With the aim of implementing playful interdisciplinary interventions in the unique space of the Kassenhalle at Otto
Wagner-Postsparkasse, AIL Ping-Pong is a format that repurposes the building’s architecture – specifically a former display
cabinet [in German: Vitrine] of the Otto Wagner Museum in the Kassenhalle to showcase artistic projects by Angewandte alumni*.
In line with AIL’s mission to embrace interdisciplinary approaches, AIL Ping-Pong fosters dialogue between 2–8 artistic
positions for each round. Centered around rotating themes, AIL Ping-Pong functions as a small window into the diverse artistic
practices of Angewandte alumni, offering a range of perspectives that explore parallels, contrasts, or extensions within a
thematic framework.
Blob
In its fourth
edition, AIL Ping-Pong will focus on the theme of: BLOB
Blob is not just an onomatopoeic
word; in biology, it refers to a specific type of fungus consisting of a single, enormous cell. It has no brain, yet it can
still learn, solve problems, and move. A blob is a form without fixed contours. It defies clear categorization: it grows,
melts, merges, engulfs, and mutates. Something between body and mass, organism and data packet, slime trail and digital artifact.
It can appear soft and funny – or threatening, viral, uncontrollable. As an onomatopoeia, Blob can be read as something that
surprises or "blobs up.” We are interested in works that understand the blob not only as a form, but also as a state, a figure
of thought, or a cultural symptom. What meanings does the formless carry? When does the blob become something alive? What
fears, desires, or visions of the future do we project onto it?
Fluid ideas, unfinished states,
and forms of the in-between are also welcome. Surprise us!
How and
who
AIL provides the space as well as communication around the project. Additionally
to the visibility AIL can offer each artist an compensation fee of 250 EUR (incl. VAT). Artworks are insured for the time
of the display.
The open call is adressed to alumni from all departments
of the Angewandte. The participants for AIL Ping-Pong will be selected by AIL based on the interesting pairs, potential contrasts,
or similarities of projects and artistic positions.
Submission
Timeline:
- Deadline Open Call: 12 July 2026
- Selection: Mid/ End August 2026
- Install Period: Beginning October 2026
- Exhibition Period: Mid Oct till mid Feb 2027
