Funny how a simple cafe can become a hotbed for artistic revolution. Right here we find Verein Boem. It is more than just an arts center. Verein Boem is located at Schwarzhorngasse 1-2 in Vienna. It is also known as BOEM* Association for Art, Culture, Science and Communication.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine Vienna in 2010. A classic Viennese corner store is reborn. This is in a district with a high working-class population. Verein Boem took over. It became a cafe and a gallery.
What makes Verein Boem so special? It is a prosumeristic center with a Viennese twist. The founders jokingly say they are waiting for the collapse of capitalism. Until then, they focus on art. They want to help shape the New Aesthetic Art.
What does this mean in practice? Verein Boem hosts international exhibitions. They organize raffles and tournaments. These tournaments feature obscure sports. They mix unique Prolococktails. They even publish a newspaper. In autumn, they launch an Artist in Residency program. It is an exciting mix of culture and creativity.
The cafe is also a vital part of Verein Boem. On weekdays, it opens early at 6 am. It closes at midnight. On weekends and holidays, it is open from 9 am to 2 am. It is a meeting place for the community.
Verein Boem is more than just a place. It is a movement. They have faced challenges as a non-profit running a coffee house. Verein Boem appreciates the support of organizations like IGKW. They see IGKW as a kind of trade union.
What does Verein Boem want from Vienna’s cultural policy? More courage is needed. More money is also needed. A transcultural offensive is essential. These are their demands for a better artistic future.
You can even listen to recordings of their BOEM* presents series on Mixcloud. This is a great way to experience their events.
Verein Boem is active in the digital world too. They have a website and are present on social media.
So what is the lasting impression of Verein Boem? It is a place where art, culture, and community come together. It is a space where creativity thrives. Verein Boem is waiting for the collapse of capitalism. Until then, they are making Vienna a more interesting place. It is a place where everyone is welcome to be part of the artistic revolution.