Hundreds of golden Mozarts in Salzburg: that's what's behind it

Since Wednesday, around 320 golden, 50-centimetre-tall sculptures of Mozart have been displayed in Salzburg as part of the installation „Mozart, das unbezähmbare Genie“ by German conceptual artist Ottmar Hörl. The figures, made of plastic, are visible until the end of August and are intended to celebrate Mozart’s 270th birthday while making art accessible to the public. The installation focuses primarily on the Mirabell Garden, with additional figures placed in the Mozart House, the Zauberflöten-Häuschen, and the garden of the Mozarteum. The initial announcement had promised 400 pieces, but only 320 were ultimately installed. These small golden statues depict Mozart as a dog lover, emphasizing his human side and highlighting his bond with animals. According to Hörl, the figures show Mozart gently placing his left hand on the head of a dog that rests close to him. This gesture reflects the deep connection between Mozart and his beloved pet, Pimperl, who was frequently mentioned in family correspondence. “Not only music played a large role in the Mozart family, but also their cherished four-legged friend,” Hörl explained during the opening of the exhibition. The majority of the figures occupy two narrow grassy areas near the Bastion and the museum pavilion within the Mirabell Garden. Smaller groups can be found in the dance master's hall of the Mozart House, the Zauberflöten-Häuschen, and the garden of the Mozarteum. Hörl described the installation as an initiative to spark conversations, bring people together, and connect individuals with their surroundings. He emphasized that the project aims to link Mozart’s legacy with contemporary artistic expression, noting that his work and personality continue to inspire new generations of artists. Linus Klumpner, director of the Mozarteum Foundation, praised the project for its unique approach, which extends beyond traditional museum settings into public spaces. “We want to connect Mozart with modern artistic creation, as his works and personal life remain a source of inspiration for future artists,” he said. Klumpner highlighted the opportunity to engage visitors from around the world outside the confines of museums, making Mozart’s legacy more accessible and relatable. Hörl, born in 1950, is renowned for creating vast numbers of miniature figures, often with political undertones. His previous installations include 10,000 bears under the Linden trees in Berlin, 7,000 Dürer rabbits in Nuremberg, and 1,250 garden gnomes in Bavaria, all featuring raised right arms in the Nazi salute. Currently, a 2.5-metre-high and 3.7-metre-long pink Dürer rabbit is on display on the facade of the Albertina in Vienna. Interestingly, more than 320 figurines were produced, serving as a reserve in case some were taken as souvenirs. Hörl anticipated that a few might disappear from the Mirabell Garden, reflecting the playful yet serious nature of his work. The installation thus blends historical reverence with contemporary artistry, offering a tangible and interactive tribute to one of history’s greatest composers.