
Austrian multimedia artist André Heller is set to design a park in Vienna, officials have announced.
Heller, renowned as a songwriter, poet, filmmaker and actor, has been commissioned by the City of Vienna to create a new public space in the Mühlschüttel area of the 21st district (Floridsdorf) on private plots reacquired by the city. The park will cover 28,000 square metres.
Described by Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig as a “magician of beauty” during a presentation on Friday, Heller has previously worked on notable park projects, including the Anima Garden in Marrakech and the Botanical Garden in Gardone on Lake Garda in Italy.
Preliminary work for the park has already begun. The MA45 city department (Vienna Waters) has redesigned the accessible shores along the Mühlschüttel area and has installed new bathing jetties there.
Heller did not disclose any specifics during the presentation. However, it is confirmed that works from artists around the world will be showcased. “Stay tuned for surprises,” Heller urged, asking for patience. “I am quite sure this will be truly wonderful.”
The estimated costs for the city are around €20 million, although Heller’s fee is not included in this figure. “I didn’t want to be in contact with taxpayers’ money,” he clarified.
His engagement is being funded by UniCredit Bank Austria, which is why the park will also carry the name “Bank Austria Park.” The company’s CEO, Ivan Vlaho, emphasised their long-standing commitment to supporting art and culture. No details were provided regarding the amount of their support.