In mid-October, as part of the “Bold Arts Festival” in Wiener Neustadt, Austrian artist David Leitner unveiled a compelling new mural at Neunkirchnerstraße 54. This piece, supported by Montana Cans and painted using their vibrant Montana BLACK colors, explores profound themes of migration, resilience, and growth in the face of adversity.
At the mural’s center, a young figure cradles an infant, who gazes intently at a drawing of a dry, desolate landscape. This central motif evokes the experience of climate-driven migration, portraying it as a timeless narrative rather than a contemporary crisis. Leitner’s figures, sculpted in the style of ancient Greek statues, highlight that migration is an ancient phenomenon and suggest we might view it not as a problem, but as an opportunity for renewal.
In the parched landscape, abstract and surreal shapes begin to emerge, suggesting that even from barren soil, new life and possibility can grow. In the foreground, a cracked vase holds a small bouquet of flowers—signifying resilience and the potential for beauty and growth, even when faced with hardship.
The Power of Red
Leitner’s recent work has seen the addition of bold red tones to his characteristic black-and-white compositions. Here, red is both striking and symbolic, standing out vividly against the gray urban backdrop. It adds a sense of urgency and passion, drawing the viewer’s eye and stirring an immediate emotional response. Red, for Leitner, embodies strength and depth, evoking primal feelings that heighten both awareness and intensity.
This mural was brought to life with a palette of Montana BLACK colors, including: BLK 9001, BLK 4330, BLK 4130, BLK 4115, BLK 8060, BLK 8050, BLK 8040, and BLK 3000.
Photo credits by Mathias Jandl & Max Schmid
For more of David Leitner’s work, visit his Instagram here.