VIENNA: PORTRAITS is a site-specific project by Josef Ka, initiated in the summer of 2024 in Vienna. For the first edition, eight individuals of various ages, genders, and professions were invited to participate:
Eric Arn, Mike Blumentopf, Gloria Damijan, Henriette Honry, Chris Haderer, Helmut Nikolaus, Walter Ulreich, Thomas Weber. 

Each participant was asked to suggest three of their favorite locations in the city, from which one location was selected for a one-hour photo session.

These locations have also inspired a new series of ink artworks depicting portraits of Vienna. 

The eight participants of the project were unaware of which ink corresponded to their location. During the opening, I invited them to place their names next to the Viennese location they found to be their favorite, as well as the location where our photoshoot took place.

The project emphasizes the relationship between a person and Vienna, exploring how individuals adjust their bodies and presence to their urban environment. 

The guiding principle of the project is encapsulated in the phrase: “Not the place that makes a man, but the man that makes the place.” This concept has been adapted to reflect a mutual influence: “The place makes the man, and the man makes the place. 

Josef Ka and 8 participants

The presentation of the project took place August, 23, 2024 at kunstraum EWIGKEITSGASSE , Vienna.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of Kunstraum EWIGKEITSGASSE, Vienna.

Special gratitude goes to Alfred Woschitz and Chris Haderer.

Heartfelt thanks to Eric Arn and Gloria Damijan for the wonderful music, to Mark Maher for the curatorial support to Montleartists Residency and to all the participants and audience.

Poster of the event – Egr Nagaen and Josef Ka.

Summer 2024, Vienna