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Down’s syndrome at the Vienna Museum: an exhibition and information fair on opportunities in the labour market

“People with Down’s syndrome want to work – we want a wage rather than pocket money,” said Simon Couvreur, President of Down’s Syndrome Austria, at the opening of the exhibition “Down’s Syndrome: About Us, With Us” at the Vienna Museum. In this exhibition, people with Down’s syndrome tell their own stories. In a personal, humorous and diverse way, they offer insights from their own perspective into their everyday lives, their school and work environments, their friendships, hobbies and dreams. Ombudsperson Bernhard Achitz also attended the opening on 21 October.

Strengths, Talent, Creativity – Exhibition until January

The exhibition runs until 24 January 2027; admission is free. Through photographs, interviews and artistic works, the exhibition reveals what matters to people with Down’s syndrome, what is important to them, the social barriers they and their families face on a daily basis, and how they put their strengths, talents and creativity to good use. 

Not about people with Down’s syndrome, but with them

“The collaborative approach of the project is particularly significant. People with Down’s syndrome have been actively involved in the development from the very start – from graphic design ideas and feedback on content right through to running joint workshops. The result is an exhibition that does not speak about people, but has been developed together with them,” says the exhibition’s curatorial team.

Talent meets opportunity – Information Fair on 12 November

The personal stories are accompanied by essential information and facts that provide insights into educational opportunities, leisure activities, the labour market and independent living. At an information fair on 12 November, persons concerned can gain an overview of the opportunities available on the labour market for people with Down’s syndrome and cognitive impairments. They can talk to representatives from various advice centres, find out about employment opportunities, ask questions and make new contacts.

Translation was AI-generated

The workshop team, from left to right: Franziska ‘Fanny’ Neumyer, Maria Clara Horvath, Alexander Stuchlik, Cathrin Sedhoum, Niklas Kern The workshop team, from left to right: Franziska “Fanny” Neumyer, Maria Clara Horvath, Alexander Stuchlik, Cathrin Sedhoum, Niklas Kern, Photo: Philipp Horak/Vienna Museum
Poster for the exhibition ‘Down’s Syndrome: About Us, With Us’ Poster for the exhibition ‘Down’s Syndrome: About Us, With Us’, Johanna Ortmayer, photo: Philipp Horak, graphic design: Cati Krüger
Exhibition view: ‘Down’s Syndrome’, Vienna Museum Photo: Vienna Museum

Exhibition and information fair at the Vienna Museum