An extraordinary collaboration between Lebenshilfe Salzburg and Gmundner Keramik brings art and inclusion together in a unique way. Unique handmade items are created here that are not only beautiful but also have a touching story to tell. The cooperation was initiated to make a contribution to the ORF campaign "Light into Darkness". The initiative has been supporting projects for people with disabilities as well as families and children in difficult life situations since 1973. This year, the artists from Lebenshilfe and the ceramic painters from Gmunden have once again brought their talents together to create unique pieces that will be auctioned on the Aurena platform.
Creative diversity meets traditional craftsmanship
Under the motto "Birthdays, gifts, anniversaries: Austria's most beautiful tableware for unforgettable occasions - an expression of something special", the artists from Lebenshilfe Salzburg developed colourful and emotional sketches as part of the "M7 inclusive art" art studio. Colourful balloons, confetti patterns and bold bows reminiscent of streamers adorn their designs. The motifs were transferred to plates, cups and jugs by the Gmundner Keramik apprentices. In this way, artistic inspiration merged with traditional craftsmanship. Each piece - whether an individual object or part of a service - is unique with an unmistakable signature, an expression of lived inclusion and a symbol of togetherness.
An experience that connects
The collaboration opens up new horizons for the artists at Lebenshilfe Salzburg. They can show their creativity to a wide audience and at the same time gain a deep insight into traditional craftsmanship. The fact that their works are visible on the ceramics of the traditional Austrian manufactory is an invaluable experience for the artists. It also impressively demonstrates how inclusion can be put into practice. And that every person has creative potential that, when given space, can produce great things.
Art that gives light
Since 1973, ORF has been collecting donations for social projects throughout Austria with its "Light into Darkness" campaign. The co-operation between Lebenshilfe Salzburg and Gmundner Keramik is a great example of how creativity, craftsmanship and social commitment go hand in hand. The finished unique ceramic pieces were presented for the first time at the end of September. From 10 October, they can be purchased on the Aurena auction platform - the auction runs until 8 November. The highlight will be the big "Licht ins Dunkel" gala on 14 November in Vienna, where the auction proceeds will be ceremoniously presented. This year's special highlight is the collaboration with Philipp Hochmair. The charismatic acting star, who played "Jedermann" at the Salzburg Festival just last year, has designed a 30-piece service together with an artist from Lebenshilfe. It will also be presented and auctioned off at the gala. Each painted piece tells a story of encounter and diversity - and literally brings light into the darkness.
Tour of the manufactory
At the start of the project, the artists from Lebenshilfe Salzburg were given an inspiring tour of the factory to gain exciting insights into the creation of unique ceramic artworks.
From the idea to the work of art
Following the tour of the manufactory, the first designs were enthusiastically put down on paper in the M7 studio - a creative programme run by Lebenshilfe Salzburg. With a lot of imagination and dedication, the artists created motifs around the themes of anniversaries, birthdays and gifts, which later served as templates for individual ceramic artworks.
Artistic collaboration with Gmundner Keramik
The final designs were handed over to the painting department at Gmundner Keramik Manufaktur. There, the apprentices applied the designs to the selected ceramic items with creative scope for interpretation. This resulted in individual ceramic pieces that reflect both the ideas of the artists and the craftsmanship of the apprentices.
From design to unique piece
Once all the ceramic items had been painted, the artists were invited to the Gmundner Keramik Manufaktur once again. There they were able to marvel at the finalised pieces with their designs for the first time - a special moment for the creative minds of Lebenshilfe Salzburg. The certificates officially documenting the collaboration were also signed in a festive setting.
Art for a good cause
The unique ceramic items can now be purchased for a good cause on the Aurena auction platform until 8 November. A special highlight: the sixth, 30-piece set - designed in collaboration with the artist Philipp Hochmair - will be auctioned off exclusively at the LiD Gala on 14 November.
