All of Austria mourns its exceptional talent: On Sunday afternoon, the death of the great artist was announced; he passed away at the age of 96. “Arnulf Rainer, an icon, has left us,” praised Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen the century painter.

He swam against the current and was constantly searching for new solutions until he found them in art. It was an exciting, radical journey – now ended.

Not only the art world mourns and pays final respects to the great painter. “Arnulf Rainer was, although often challenged and misunderstood, deeply rooted in the history of European painting and at the same time renewed Austrian art. We need this spirit of renewal especially now,” said the head of state via Bluesky.

Albertina General Director Ralph Gleis regarded him as one of the most important Austrian artists of our time. “This great painter leaves behind not only a rich oeuvre but also a lasting influence on the contemporary art scene through his extensive work. His experimental and expressive works expanded the boundaries of art and opened new perspectives.”

Officials and art critics described him as an outstanding ambassador of Austria, an inspiring figure who left a rich legacy of innovation and artistic renewal.

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