It was about 20 years ago when Gernot Schmerlaib (to the left) and Fritz Unegg (to the right) were thinking about giving a clear signal of artistic exchange. Something which was politically and socially only rudimentarily available at that time should be enriched by common work and creativity of artists from Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, from other neighbouring European countries, and from Austria. This newly created artistic and scenic space was called Alpine-Adriatic Art Symposium.

For that, of course, people and a suitable local surroundings were needed for filling this space. And, up to now, it is clear that both could be found at St. Kanzian.

But, what has been necessary to implement events of this type?

It is always the environment that is needed to combine the unknown qualities, the scenic beauty of a region, with the artistic presence of other regions. For savour and creation, and for preserving moments and memories in pictures and scultures. For this, a cultural area with a rich artistic background and multi-linguality has been found. Even more, what we experience - and an event like this relies on it - is that there is a lot of readyness, joy, and interest of international artists who are willing to work together for a whole week, who are open to get in contact to each other, and who are curious to see how art in other countries functions - new friendships not to mention. More than 120 artists have taken part in our symposia so far. We would also like to thank the sponsors who made these events possible.

Finally, what is left, is to say a big thank you to all the artists who, with their attitudes and spirits, always have been chosing their own way - in spite of many difficulties. Due to their exceptional behaviour and despite all the social and economic challanges, it makes even more sense for our society to give a high profile to the art, the different regions, and the creative artists.

Gernot Schmerlaib, Fritz Unegg
(AAKS Organizers)