About us

With an innovative reinterpretation of the traditional provincial exhibitions, SHOWING STYRIA presents socially significant topics from an artistic and scientific perspective every two years.

The format launched by the Province of Styria in 2021 is also being realised in its third edition by the Universalmuseum Joanneum. After the first edition focussed on the development, identity and future of Styria, the second edition in 2023 explored the diversity of life at the main location Tierwelt Herberstein.

The upcoming edition of SHOWING STYRIA dives deep into the world of the Eggenbergs and opens up parallels to our present day.

The Joanneum has always been based in Graz. However, from the very beginning, it has also maintained a presence in various forms across the regions of Styria. During the reign of Archduke Johann, for example, it organised travelling Show case displays in markets and towns to give people a better understanding of their region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Modelled on the major exhibition formats of the 19th century, such as the World’s Fairs, the ‘Styrian Regional Exhibition’ was held between 1959 and 2006. Initially taking place every two years, and subsequently almost annually, the provincial exhibitions explored various themes that were closely linked to the ever-changing venues. In this way, regional historical and economic aspects were explored, as was the artistic and cultural heritage of the province of Styria.

Following on from the “Landesausstellung”, the “regionale” took place in 2008, 2010 and 2012. Conceived as a cultural festival, the “regionale” also focused on a selected Styrian region in each instance. The core objectives of the “regionale” were the intensive exploration of the intersections between art and culture and the everyday lives of people in the regions, as well as an approach that spanned disciplines and locations.

SHOWING STYRIA builds on the tradition of the Province of Styria’s major exhibition formats, developing them further in a contemporary and innovative way. It explores current social issues from the perspectives of art and culture, presenting them in a way that appeals to a wide audience.