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HISTORY

In 1998, FIFTITU% was established as the “Association for the Promotion of Art and Culture by Women in Upper Austria”. Several years prior to this, activists from Upper Austrian contemporary cultural initiatives had already come together to form the so-called “Women’s Discussion Group” of KUPF OÖ (the cultural policy advocacy group for autonomous initiatives in Upper Austria).&

Due to the lack of feminist cultural work and policy in Upper Austria, they founded FIFTITU%. From the outset, a key aim of the association was to establish a networking hub for women in art and culture. This has been in existence since 2001.

Since then, FIFTITU% has established itself as an indispensable force for the promotion and support of women* in the art and culture scene. As a feminist forum and contact point, the association has for over 25 years provided a platform that not only bridges the gap between regional feminist culture and contemporary art, but also drives forward innovative digital projects.

The importance of FIFTITU% as a hub for women*, lesbian, inter, non-binary, trans and agender people in the arts and cultural sector is undisputed. With a comprehensive range of advisory services, professional development and cultural policy initiatives, the association makes a significant contribution to promoting fairness and diversity in Austria. Recognition of this work is reflected in the award of the Grand Provincial Culture Prize for proactive cultural work by the Province of Upper Austria in 2023 and 2002, and the State Prize “Outstanding Artist Award” in 2018.

With the establishment of Salon FIFTITU%, which emerged from the strategic initiative “Kompetent Rebellisch 2020–2023”, we have taken an important step towards raising the profile of feminist work. This space for open social exchange and discussion represents a significant counterpoint to political currents that call social and feminist achievements into question.

The growing importance of FIFTITU% as a central point of contact and driving force for women* in the arts and culture is clearly reflected in the high demand for our diverse range of services. With 50 events, workshops and programmes each year, as well as individual support for over 200 clients, we have firmly established ourselves locally, regionally and nationally.