The extension of the Westpassage is planned in connection with the expansion of the U2 subway line as part of the many renovation measures to be undertaken at the art square Karlsplatz to heighten its appeal as a cultural and urban node. The underground passageway presently extends from the main passage – near the entrance area to the U2 line – to the exit near the Akademiehof.
A direct expansion in the direction of the Secession with an exit in the immediate vicinity of the prominent art institution is already planned and is expected to be opened in 2005. The new passageway between Secession and Westpassage aims to open up the area of Friedrichsstrasse/Getreidemarkt which is difficult for pedestrians to access and make it more attractive.
A central design aspect for the visual and functional enhancement of the passageway is light. In keeping with the entire location, important areas of the busy underground passage are to be marked with artistic interventions. The point of departure for the development of an artistic concept are the glass case elements mounted into the wall at rhythmic intervals. |
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These elements will be available for a consistent artistic design.
To develop a site-adequate art concept which does justice to the international character of the Karlsplatz area, the Board for Art in Public Space has organized a limited competition in which ten artists have been invited to participate. The final list will be published end of May 2005. The competition is organized by the Wissenschaftszentrum Wien together with the board of experts of Art in Public Spaces Vienna.
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