The Vienna Secession was an art movement founded in 1897 by a group of Austrian artists, including Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. It aimed to break away from traditional artistic conventions and promote new ideas in art, architecture, and design. The movement emphasized individual creativity and sought to create a distinct Austrian style. The Secessionists organized exhibitions to showcase their work and that of other contemporary artists. They also established the Secession Building in Vienna, designed by Joseph Maria Olbrich, which became a symbol of the movement. The Vienna Secession played a crucial role in the development of modern art in Europe.