Elisabeth Schmirl

Elisabeth Schmirl (*1980) is a University Professor for Graphics & Painting and Art Education at the Mozarteum University Salzburg, where she has been teaching since 2015. She serves as Deputy Department Head and Representative for the Study of Art and Craft Education within the Department of Visual Arts, Art and Craft Education.

Professor Schmirl's research and artistic practice spans multiple disciplines within visual arts, with particular emphasis on:

• Graphics & Printmaking - running her own printmaking studio since 2002
• Contemporary Painting techniques and conceptual approaches
• Art Education methodologies and practices
• Interdisciplinary art projects bridging visual arts with social commentary
• Artistic responses to ecological and societal challenges

Her extensive exhibition history demonstrates a consistent engagement with themes of perception, social structures, and artistic process. Schmirl's works often explore the intersection of personal experience with broader societal contexts, employing diverse media including painting, printmaking, and conceptual installations. Her artistic output shows a progression from more traditional approaches toward increasingly conceptual frameworks addressing contemporary issues such as environmental concerns and social structures.

Among her notable recognitions are:

• Staatsstipendium Bildende Kunst des Bundeskanzleramts (2019)
• Jahresstipendium des Landes Salzburg (2015)
• Förderpreis des Landes Salzburg (2012)
• Nomination for the Großer Kunstpreis des Landes Salzburg (2011)
• Nomination for the Kardinal König Kunstpreis (2009)

Schmirl has been actively involved in artistic communities and initiatives beyond her academic role. Since 2006, she has served as chairwoman of periscope, an art initiative, and since 2015 has operated SUPER - Initiative for interim use of vacant spaces as cultural action areas. She is also a board member of the Salzburg Cultural Venues Association and has been a member of the Salzburg State Cultural Council since 2017.