The Vienna Opera Ball is a hallmark of Viennese culture and elegance, drawing global attention as a night of glamour, tradition, and unparalleled artistry. On 27 February 2025, the Vienna State Opera will host the 67th Opera Ball, a breathtaking event that continues to celebrate the rich heritage of the city’s cultural life.
This year, Hahnemühle is honoured to play a unique role as the paper sponsor for the Opernballplakat, the official poster of the Vienna Opera Ball. With a legacy that spans centuries, Hahnemühle is committed to supporting art and tradition, making this partnership an ideal match.
Franz Grabmayr and the Opera Ball Poster
The artwork chosen for the 67th Opera Ball poster is a piece by Franz Grabmayr, one of Austria’s most iconic modern artists. Known for his bold strokes and abstract forms, Grabmayr captured the essence of movement, energy, and emotion in his works.
Grabmayr’s connection to the Vienna State Opera is deeply rooted in his artistic journey. During the 1970s and 1980s, he frequented the ballet halls, sketching and painting during daily rehearsals. His vivid, dynamic depictions of ballet rehearsals and stage performances stand as a testament to his ability to translate motion into visual art.
For this year’s Opera Ball poster, an abstract landscape painting by Grabmayr was selected, embodying the spirit of the ball and the vibrant cultural atmosphere it represents.
Hahnemühle Hybrid Bamboo: Sustainable and Exceptional
The 67th Opera Ball poster has been printed on Hahnemühle Hybrid Bamboo, a sustainable paper that aligns perfectly with the timeless elegance of the Vienna Opera Ball. Made from 90% bamboo fibers and 10% cotton rag, this paper represents Hahnemühle’s commitment to natural, resource-saving production.
Hybrid Bamboo features a unique, rough surface that beautifully brings out the textures and colours of Franz Grabmayr’s abstract masterpiece. Its versatility and quality make it ideal for a range of printing techniques, including HP Indigo® presses, offset printing, and even modern digital printing technologies. Hybrid Bamboo ensures that each print is a faithful and vivid representation of the original artwork.
The posters were skillfully printed by Gerin Druck, a renowned Austrian printer based in Wolkersdorf. Known for their precision and quality, Gerin Druck ensured that the essence of Grabmayr’s artistry and the unique qualities of Hahnemühle Hybrid Bamboo were impeccably brought to life.
A Night to Remember
The Vienna Opera Ball is not only a grand celebration but also a platform for supporting the arts. As in previous years, the original poster artwork will be auctioned, with proceeds benefiting a charitable cause. This highlights the Opera Ball’s dedication to giving back to the community and fostering creativity.
Hahnemühle is proud to provide the high-quality paper that brings this exquisite artwork to life. Our paper is designed to enhance the richness of colours and textures, ensuring that Grabmayr’s masterpiece is beautifully rendered for all to admire.