In 2008 the Ringturm temporarily became a gigantic tribute – the Turm in Blüte (Tower in Blossom) – when it was covered with a work by Austrian artist Hubert Schmalix. The installation was a giant symbolic bouquet of flowers presented to the people of Vienna and the city itself by Wiener Städtische Versicherungsverein.
Wiener Städtische CEO Günter Geyer said: “For this year’s covering of the Ringturm we have been able to attract another renowned Austrian artist, Hubert Schmalix. Featuring his characteristic formal language, the work breathes new life into a monumental building.”
Ringturm Wrapping 2008 "Tower in Blossom" by Hubert Schmalix. © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Thomas Pitterle
Ringturm Wrapping 2008 "Tower in Blossom" by Hubert Schmalix. © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Thomas Pitterle
Ringturm Wrapping 2008 "Tower in Blossom" by Hubert Schmalix. © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Thomas Pitterle
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008. On the picture from left to right: Wiener Städtische CEO Günter Geyer, MUMOK-head of collections Wolfgang Drechsler, vice-chancellor Grete Laska and artist Hubert Schmalix. © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola
Official Opening Ringturm Wrapping 2008 © Wiener Städtische Versicherung/Petra Spiola