The photographic exhibition Immigrants of Influence honours Austrian refugees who fled to England and made a substantial contribution to life in their adopted country. Photographer Peter Rauter (1948-2006) was influenced by his family’s Austrian heritage and his parents’ experience as part of the larger London émigré community.

The exodus of German and Austrian writers, musicians, scientists and intellectuals in the 1930s left an indelible mark on Europe and America. They had a strong influence on many aspects of British culture, yet few visible memorials remain. Among the portraits featured are those of art historian Ernst Gombrich, pianist Ferdinand Rauter and painter Marie-Louise von Motesiczky. The original exhibition was awarded the Silver AFAP (Association of Photographers) Award in 1993, and was previously displayed at the Austrian Cultural Forum London.