“Identity of Space” : Looking at the Slovak Landscape Through Student Artists' Eyes“

June 6, 2008

"Identity of Space/Identita miesta", an exhibit documenting cooperative artistic workshops of Slovak students from Catholic University in Ruzomberok and American students from Buffalo State University and Slippery Rock University, is currently at the Peter Michal Bohun Gallery in Liptovsky Mikulas. This Embassy-sponsored exhibit chronicles workshops held in Slanicka Osada in 2006 and in Buffalo, NY in 2007, led by Pavol Rusko, associate professor of art at Catholic University in Ruzomberok, and Jozef Bajus, associate professor of art at Buffalo State University. The main focus of the project was to recognize the identity of space, historical and cultural connections, and  the attractions and reactions to these elements through the fine arts. Mr. Rusko said of the Slanica workshop: “In this location of water, air and art we spent one unforgettable week. The projects  created show our way of thinking about the identity of space, but the atmosphere of the workshop is invisible and stays hidden inside all of us.” The exhibit showcases the results of the two workshops, including graphic works such as maquettes and drawings, as well as photographs documenting artistic installations and the workshops’ atmosphere and working environment. “Identity of Space/Identita miesta” will be on display in Liptovsky Mikulas until June 15, then begin a tour of Slovak libraries.