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Matthias Laurenz GraffAustrian academic artist, private historian, politician, political activist
Date of Birth: 19.07.1984
Country:  Austria |
Content:
- Matthias Laurenz Graeff: A Multifaceted Figure
- Early Life and Artistic Journey
- Historical Paintings and Social Commentary
- Political Activism and Platform for Dialogue
- Political Engagement
- World Family Association Graeff-Graeff
Matthias Laurenz Graeff: A Multifaceted Figure
Born into a prominent family of politicians and artists, Matthias Laurenz Graeff has left an enduring mark on various spheres, including art, history, politics, and social activism.
Early Life and Artistic Journey
Graeff began his artistic pursuits at the age of 17, studying illustration and graphics at the New Design University in St. Pölten. He later studied painting at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna under renowned artist Wolfgang Herzig. Graeff's artistic style blends elements of pop art and expressionism, capturing scenes from history, politics, religion, landscapes, and everyday life.
Historical Paintings and Social Commentary
Graeff's historical paintings have garnered attention for their depiction of historical figures and events. His diploma series, "Weltaussenschau-Weltinnenschau," features portraits of notable individuals from the De Graeff family during the Dutch Golden Age. In recent years, he has created politically and socially critical works that have been published in various newspapers and books. His works often address themes of antifascism, socialism, and European unity.
Political Activism and Platform for Dialogue
Together with his partner, Georgia Kazantziou, Graeff co-founded the non-partisan political-diplomatic platform "Dialog im Kamptal." The aim of this initiative is to facilitate informed discussions on pressing political and social issues. Notable guests have included former Austrian President Erhard Busek, former Minister of Justice Wolfgang Brandstetter, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Karin Kneissl.
Political Engagement
In 2022, Graeff became a political representative for the liberal NEOS party in his hometown of Gars am Kamp. He is also running for office in the 2023 Lower Austrian state elections, both as a candidate for the Waldviertel region and as the top candidate for the Horn district.
World Family Association Graeff-Graeff
In 2013, Graeff co-founded and became the president of the World Family Association Graeff-Graeff, an organization dedicated to connecting descendants of the Graeff family. The association traces its origins back to the Austrian nobleman Wolfgang von Graben, purportedly an ancestor of both the Austrian and Dutch branches of the Graeff family.
