FROM SHADOW INTO LIGHT: ART IN SUPPORT OF ME/CFS RESEARCH
From 12 to 16 November 2026, the WE&ME Foundation returns to ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna. On show are works by Oskar Czerwenka, Friedrich Plahl and Hubert Scheibl, with all proceeds going directly to research into ME/CFS and raising awareness of the illness. On 13 November, the Hofburg will also host NovemberLicht, an afternoon of words, images and music by Franz Schubert.
PAINTINGS FULL OF LIGHT
The three artists are known as masters of colour. Their paintings are bold, vibrant and bright. That is exactly what many people with ME/CFS can no longer bear. They are so sensitive to light and noise that they live in darkened rooms, often for months or years, cut off from family and friends. The exhibition sets out to show this contrast.
ART FOR A DONATION
All works were donated to the WE&ME Foundation. Each can be acquired for a donation equal to its estimated value. The money goes straight to research and awareness work on ME/CFS.
NOVEMERLICHT
At 1pm on 13 November, NovemberLicht brings together words, images and music in the Knights’ Hall and Artists’ Room of the Hofburg. It features texts and poems by Empress Emerita Michiko of Japan, Archbishop Josef Grünwidl and Prof. Julius Berger, alongside works by Billi Thanner and Robert Bosisio and close up photographs of a cello by Julius Berger Jr.
IAt its heart is Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata, performed by Prof. Julius Berger and Hyun-Jung Berger. It is music that moves between melancholy, comfort and hope. The event aims to offer reassurance and bring people together, even in dark times.
Taking part
- Prof. Julius Berger and Hyun-Jung Berger, cellos
- Prof. Dr Lukas Haider, physician and neuroscientist
- Mia Brugger, David Haller and Greta Jud, students from South Tyrol
DATES
ART&ANTIQUE HOFBURG Vienna
12 to 16 November 2026, daily 11am to 7pm, Monday until 5pm
Hofburg, Vienna
NovemberLicht
Friday, 13 November 2026, 1pm
Hofburg, Vienna, Knights’ Hall and Artists’ Room
