Franz Traunfellner in Pöggstall Getting to know the Waldviertel means viewing it from an artistic perspective. The documentary in the Pöggstall Castle is dedicated to the life and work of the painter and graphic artist. Original prints, graphic works, and oil paintings make this a fascinating destination for your cultural vacation. Museum Management in Lower Austria
Combine your visit to the exhibition with a stay in our vacation rentals at Anna and Herbert's in Gutenbrunn. That leaves you time to enjoy the art, explore the area, and plan your vacation just the way you want.
Even if you rarely visit art exhibitions, it’s worth keeping an open mind. You don’t have to identify artistic styles or understand every piece right away. It’s enough to be curious and see which paintings catch your eye.
Franz Traunfellner in Pöggstall: An Artist from the Region
Franz Traunfellner lived from 1913 to 1986. He made his home and set up his studio in Gerersdorf near Pöggstall. As a painter and graphic artist, he worked in a variety of techniques; people, animals, and the natural surroundings of his region were among his favorite subjects. Franz Traunfellner
This connection to the region makes the exhibition particularly interesting for vacationers in the Waldviertel. Here, the landscape is experienced not only as a beautiful view, but also as a starting point for artistic work.
Perhaps you've already noticed the shapes of trees, hills, or light and shadow during your stay. In an exhibition, you can discover how differently such impressions can come across in a painting.
Expression Through Focus on the Essentials
Traunfellner became particularly well-known for his woodcuts. *Bildrecht* describes his work as expressive depictions created by reducing forms to their essentials. His body of work also includes experimental pieces, such as non-representational lithographs, material prints, and monotypes. Book Presentation – Image Rights
To kick off your tour, here are some thought-provoking questions: How few lines does a picture need to convey a landscape? What effect does the contrast between light and dark areas create? When does a depiction appear calm, and when does it appear dynamic?
Pick a single work and take a closer look at it for a little longer. Often, your first impression changes as soon as you notice small details or the composition of the image.
What to Expect from the Franz Traunfellner Documentary
The exhibition is housed in four rooms of the castle. In addition to prints and paintings, tools, an intaglio press, and a lithography press offer insights into the artist’s working methods. Photographs and a short film round out the exhibition. Franz Traunfellner
It is precisely this connection between the artworks and the tools used to create them that makes the visit so engaging. You can not only view the finished painting, but also explore how it was created.
An illustrated biography provides background information on his life. A map shows Traunfellner’s international artistic connections and exhibitions. This illustrates just how far his connections extended beyond the Waldviertel region. Museum Management in Lower Austria
Viewing Pictures and Learning Materials Together
As you walk through the exhibition, try to find connections between the artworks and the tools on display. What questions does a particular tool raise? Which steps in the process would you like to have explained?
You don't have to understand every technical detail. Simply being aware of the craftsmanship involved can change the way you view a printed work.
For guests traveling together, here’s a fun activity: Each of you chooses a work that particularly appeals to you. Then, tell each other what stands out to you about it. Different perspectives can enrich a visit to the exhibition.
Special Exhibition 2026: „The Art of Stone“
The municipality has announced a special exhibition for the 2026 season „The Art of Stone“ From April 1 through October 31, 2026, 20 of Traunfellner’s lithographs from 1954 to 1981 will be on display. The exhibition focuses on the history and techniques of artistic lithography. Franz Traunfellner
If you're planning a cultural vacation in October, you can still take this theme into account. For later stays, it's worth checking the exhibition schedule that will be current at that time.
Special exhibitions also provide an opportunity to revisit a place you are already familiar with. Different works or a new thematic focus may raise questions that did not come to mind during your first visit.
Experience Art Inside the Castle and the Landscape Outside
The Traunfellnerweg is also part of the itinerary. It begins at the castle and winds through the landscape that inspired the artist. Museum Management in Lower Austria
Combining an art exhibition with outdoor activities is a great way to spend a varied day. After viewing the paintings, you can go outside and look for lines, shapes, and contrasts yourself.
Perhaps you’ll notice the silhouette of a tree more clearly than before. Or you might discover how a change in the light makes the same landscape look different. You don’t need a sketchpad or a camera to do this—just look with intention.
Before going on a hike, find out the exact route, distance, and current conditions. Then decide whether the trail fits your schedule and fitness level.
A Cultural Vacation with Anna and Herbert in Gutenbrunn
Our vacation rentals in Gutenbrunn offer you a place to stay for a vacation filled with excursions, culture, and relaxation. At Anna and Herbert’s, personalized service is our top priority.
Families, guests with pets, and people looking for accessible or wheelchair-accessible accommodations can find information about our vacation rentals on our website. Pets are welcome here. www.ferienwohnungen-gutenbrunn.at
Let us know your preferred dates and requirements. We'd be happy to help you choose the right apartment for your travel group.
Book Vacation Rentals Directly with Anna and Herbert
With a few days off, you can combine art and nature at your own pace. Plan a thorough visit to an exhibition and intentionally leave the next day open. This creates space for spontaneous ideas and quiet moments.
Visiting an Exhibition with Children
Art can be interesting for children, too, if they’re allowed to explore it on their own. Instead of giving them a lot of information, you can ask simple questions: Which picture would you like to take home? Where do you see an animal? Which shapes look particularly unusual?
Let the children describe their impressions without immediately giving them the "right" answer. A picture can evoke different thoughts in different people.
Keep the tour manageable and plan for a break. Be sure to follow the rules regarding touching exhibits and taking photos.
Hours of Operation and Practical Visitor Information
The Franz Traunfellner collection is located at the Pöggstall Castle, Hauptplatz 1, 3650 Pöggstall.
The municipality has announced the following opening hours for the 2026 exhibition: Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4 p.m. The announced special exhibition ends on October 31, 2026. Franz Traunfellner
The Lower Austria Museum Management charges an adult admission fee of 6 euros and a children's price of 4 euros . Advance registration is required for groups. Check the current hours of operation and admission fees before your visit, especially if you're visiting during the off-season. As of October 2026. Museum Management in Lower Austria
Information for Guests with Limited Mobility
The municipality describes the interior areas of the castle as wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, but the exterior areas as only partially so. www.poeggstall.gv.at
Find out in advance how to get to the exhibition spaces and what assistance you might need. You should inquire separately about whether the Traunfellnerweg is suitable; the castle’s accessibility does not indicate anything about the hiking trail.
You can discuss your accommodation needs directly with Anna and Herbert.
Your Day Off: A Blend of Art and Relaxation
Start your day at a leisurely pace in your vacation rental, and then head to Pöggstall. While viewing the exhibition, take your time to explore the works that particularly appeal to you.
If the weather is nice, you can go for a walk afterward. If you'd prefer to experience more culture, you can include the other exhibitions at the castle in your plans. Decide based on your interests and the time you have available.
Back in Gutenbrunn, you’ll have the chance to cook together, read, or talk about the day’s experiences. We look forward to welcoming you and personally helping you make the most of your stay in the Waldviertel.
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