In abundance. Highlights from Gery Keszler's Life Ball collection

Every year for 26 years, Gery Keszler transformed Vienna’s City Hall into a place of joie de vivre, openness and solidarity. From 1993 to 2019, he initiated and organised the world-famous LIFE BALL - one of the largest charity events in Europe, a benefit for people infected with HIV and AIDS and a dazzling major event for a diverse society.
Flashy, extravagant, elegant, provocative, glamorous, nostalgic, futuristic, amusing and much more - the Life Ball themes were as varied as the numerous costumes that have accumulated in Gery Keszler's collection over the years. They tell of unforgettable performances and celebrities who have worn them. But they are also a treasure trove of unusual materials, opulent colours and sophisticated manufacturing methods. The textile view of the costumes reveals the world behind the covers and shows a wealth of complex techniques and rich textile culture - an approach that has become increasingly important for Gery Keszler since he has also been involved in weaving himself. He has now channelled his hundreds of costumes into a new project close to his heart: LIFE COSTUMES - a public costume collection with a studio, a space for creative development and social engagement in Vienna's Ottakring district (https://life-costumes.org).
As part of the Textile Culture Haslach 2025 summer symposium, treasures from this rich pool will be presented for the first time in an exhibition in the Haslach church tower. On the eight floors of the massive former fortified tower, visitors can admire selected highlights from the textile heritage of the Life Ball up close, immerse themselves in a colourful world and carry the spirit of the Life Ball beyond the fortified walls to the outside world.

Location: Haslach church tower
Duration: Mon, 14 July - Sun, 10 August 2025
Opening: Sun, 13 July, 7 pm