Three prominent Munich art dealers have brought a touch of cultural sophistication to the Austrian ski resort town of Kitzbühel with their exclusive pop-up exhibition titled "Old Paths, New Heights." Constantin Hemmerle of Hemmerle Contemporary, along with Tim Aumüller and Björn Gerstner from MINT Gallery, launched the VIP preview event at the Frank Fluegel Gallery, drawing an impressive crowd of celebrities, art collectors, and socialites. The exhibition, which runs through January 4, 2026, aims to elevate Kitzbühel's emerging art scene by showcasing works from internationally renowned artists alongside rising contemporary talents. The carefully curated selection features pieces priced between approximately $2,750 and $253,000, bridging the gap between established blue-chip artists and promising newcomers.
The collaborative project represents a strategic effort to position Kitzbühel as a serious destination for art enthusiasts, not just winter sports aficionados. "This project builds a bridge between well-known blue-chip artists and emerging contemporary creators, creating an open framework where art becomes accessible, transcendent, and vividly experienceable—within the tension between historical context and present-day relevance," explained Hemmerle during the opening reception. Aumüller and Gerstner expanded on this vision, stating, "With this exhibition, we want to show how vibrant and forward-thinking contemporary art can be. The presented artists bring a strong, distinctive voice that unfolds a new intensity in interplay with Kitzbühel's unique location." Their combined expertise has created a cultural moment that could redefine the town's artistic identity.
The exhibition features an impressive roster of international heavyweights including George Condo, Willem de Kooning, Gerhard Richter, and Günther Uecker, alongside contemporary voices such as Kuldeep Singh, Tanya Ling, Salvatore Emblema, and Stefan Rinck. Historical depth is provided by works from Gabriele Münter, a key figure of the Blue Rider movement whose painting "Elmau" attracted particular attention. The price range reflects the diversity of the collection, offering entry points for new collectors while presenting museum-quality pieces for seasoned connoisseurs. The works are displayed throughout the gallery space, creating dynamic dialogues between different artistic generations and movements that challenge and engage viewers.
The VIP preview attracted a constellation of European high society and cultural figures. Television presenter Arabella Kiesbauer attended with her husband Florens Eblinger, both active art collectors. "We are very interested in art and collect ourselves," Kiesbauer revealed. "Especially the Münter over there—we find it very interesting," she added, gesturing toward the historic piece. While noting they primarily favor contemporary art, she expressed excitement about discovering so many fascinating artists in one place. "Kitzbühel definitely has some catching up to do when it comes to art," Kiesbauer emphasized, highlighting the exhibition's importance for the local cultural landscape. Former Austrian chancellor advisor and entrepreneur Antonella Mei-Pochtler, accompanied by her husband Christian, shared similar sentiments: "We need more art in Kitzbühel because people want to experience the other side of life here, not just nature. Wonderful what these gallery owners have put together."
Influencer Nina Suess, vacationing in Kitzbühel, made a special appearance, praising the initiative: "I think it's great that Kitzbühel is now developing more toward St. Moritz in terms of art. There's definitely still some room for improvement." Car rental magnate Regine Sixt also voiced her approval: "Kitzbühel is also art, so art fits well here. I love art myself and was curious about this exhibition." Countess Stephanie von Pfuel, despite having a full holiday schedule including her daughter Milana's birthday, prioritized the event: "I find art always exciting. I'm currently redoing the stairwell at my place in Tüssling, and there's still room for art there. The idea of an exhibition in Kitzbühel at this time is great—there are many private homes here and people have time to shop. It doesn't always have to be just clothing."
PR professional Benjamin Bartz, who managed the guest list for this exhibition following the trio's successful spring show, explained the timing strategy: "Kitzbühel offers the ideal stage for this unique exhibition between the years. People are particularly relaxed during this time and ready for new impulses. Art here isn't an obligatory event, but a relaxed experience in the middle of life." The exhibition, open daily from noon to 5 PM through January 4, 2026 (closed January 1), has already generated significant buzz. Additional notable attendees included German Federal Minister for Research and Space Dorothee Bär with husband Oliver, television personality Finn Pilawa with girlfriend Jana, Aigner CEO Sibylle Schön, entrepreneur Judith Epstein with sons Niki and Bobby, businesswoman Karin Holler with partner Nils Baron von Maydell, Monaco Consul Alexander Liegl with wife Isabelle, investment advisor Hayo Willms, BVB legend Michael Zorc with wife Jola, publisher Alexandra Holland, and entrepreneur Lars Wössner with Stefano Marenzi.
