Romanian Graphic Arts XIII – a national overview

a la une, Arts

Romanian Graphic Arts XIII edition catalog , by Ioan Cuciurca and the UAP Romania

The Annual Romanian Graphic Arts Exhibition has reached its 13th edition, a remarkable testament to the enduring passion for graphic arts in a rapidly evolving creative landscape. Under the dedicated vision of curator and artist Ioan Cuciurca, this exhibition brings together a diverse array of graphic artists from across Romania and its diaspora. This endeavor is no small feat, as many traditional graphic techniques are gradually fading, supplanted by digital methods. Held at the elegant Caminul Artie, just steps away from the University of Bucharest, the exhibition stands as a vibrant celebration of this unique artistic discipline.

Curator Ioan Cuciurca intentionally refrains from imposing a thematic framework, aiming instead to reveal the current preoccupations and creative energies of contemporary masters. As he explains: “By not choosing a theme, we allow the artists to express their genuine interests and inspirations of the moment.” This year’s call for submissions attracted over 140 applications, out of which 75 works were carefully selected, each representing a distinct universe of artistic exploration.

view of the upper level of Camino Artei gallery in Bucharest presenting the Romanian Graphic arts annual show , edge magazine

in the center ‘Imponderable I, II and III’ by Ruxandra Calaras

A Rare Institutional Showcase

Supported by the Romanian Artists’ Union (UAP), the exhibition highlights the importance of institutional backing for sustaining and promoting the graphic arts. The opening ceremony was graced by the UAP’s director, who delivered an impassioned speech emphasizing the significance of these art practices within the broader spectrum of plastic arts. His words resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the exhibition’s role as both a cultural milestone and a call to action to preserve and celebrate these techniques.

Letitia Gaba at the Romanian graphic Arts annual show in Bucharest official selection

Letitia Gaba – Dragon, drawing on paper

A Kaleidoscope of Styles and Techniques

The exhibition is an effervescent showcase of contrasts and convergences, offering visitors an immersive journey through the many facets of graphic arts. From the intricate iconographic language of ancient traditions to cutting-edge digital abstraction, the works on display traverse a vast range of themes – mysticism, nature, and the human condition. This rich variety underscores the relevance and adaptability of graphic arts in contemporary culture, proving that the medium can still speak to the soul in unexpected ways.

curator Ioan Cuciurca presents as well his own works , digital art - the edge mag
curator Ioan Cuciurca presents as well his own works , digital art - the edge mag
curator Ioan Cuciurca presents as well his own works , digital art - the edge mag

Ioan Cuciurca – Windows, digital art

Yan Su - Spirit and Matter , ink and acrylic on canvas, doctor in arts, the edge mag

Yan Su – Spirit and Matter

Ioana Andrei - Priestess - ink and collage, print, next, Nina Mihaila, on the column, Elena Murariu, photographed for Edge mag

Ioana Andrei – Priestess, Metamorphosis and Well of Fortune – ink and collage, print; next, Nina Mihaila; on the column, Elena Murariu.

Among the many compelling works on display, a few stand out for their distinct approaches and mastery:

Ancient Meets Modern: Reinterpreting Byzantine Traditions

One of the captivating aspects of this year’s exhibition is the seamless integration of ancient iconographic traditions with contemporary artistic sensibilities. Many artists draw inspiration from the visual language of Byzantine art, reimagining its symbols to resonate with modern audiences.

Andrei Matei Banc offers a powerful work, ‘Zalmoxis,’ named after the ancient Dacian deity. His piece merges mystical iconography into ink drawing, a historical reverence. Victor Eugene Mihai-Vem, with his piece ‘Identity,’ delves into a pop art perspective, challenging viewers to rethink the role of icons in contemporary culture. The classic Byzantine beauty and craftsmanship of Mihailescu‘s work exude an understated elegance, staying true to the roots of religious iconography while infusing it with a renewed vitality. Elena Murariu captivates with her ethereal compositions, which embody a spiritual serenity that transcends time. Her delicate lines and symbolic depth evoke a meditative quality, inviting viewers to reflect on the enduring relevance of these archetypal forms.

the hanging of Judas Iscariot by Elena Murariu with gold foil and ink drawing

The hanging of Judas Iscariot by Elena Murariu

Alexandra Mas-Treaty on Magic, maximalist mixte media with etching, poetry, ink drawing and photography, all by the artist

Alexandra Mas -Treaty on Magic

Alexandra Mas-Treaty on Magic, maximalist mixte media with etching, poetry, ink drawing and photography, all by the artist

Ioana Palamar

 

Celebrating Beauty and Fragility

In a harmonious counterpoint to the esoteric and mystical, many artists in the 13th Annual Romanian Graphic Arts Exhibition turn their focus to the natural world, celebrating its beauty, fragility, and interconnectedness. These works encompass a spectrum of approaches, from realistic portrayals of landscapes, humans and wildlife to abstract explorations of nature’s rhythms and textures, each serving as a testament to the enduring allure and significance of the natural realm. Liviu Casandrei enchants with ‘Dream’, a poetic human, depictions that evoke the serene, timeless of beauty drawing viewers into a meditative state. Albert Levante addresses the precarious equilibrium of our environment in ‘Balance,’ a poignant reminder of humanity’s responsibility to preserve harmony. Constantin Apostol captures the magic of ephemeral moments in ‘Midsummer Night,’ an evocative piece that highlights the mystique of nature at its most vibrant. Loretta Balauta Lorincz charms with ‘With the House on the Back,’ an intimate exploration of nomadic themes. Theodora Diana Borz creates a hauntingly delicate atmosphere in ‘The Gates (White Sun),’ where her figurative work invites reflection on the passage of time and the thresholds of existence. Ioan Cucurca‘s contemplative ‘Windows’ Triptych offers a quiet meditation on the interplay between interior and exterior spaces, echoing the rhythms of nature. Mihaela Dumitru Tranca presents ‘Reflex,’  captivating pieces that embody the reflective qualities of natural forms. Daniela Frumuseanu crafts ‘Ludic,’ a herbal grimoire that nostalgically invokes the joy of collecting plants and poems, blending tradition with whimsy. Maria Fülöp’s ‘Something Irreversible’ and Iosef Paul Leș’ ‘Following the Rhythm of Life’ underscore the interconnectedness of humans and the larger cosmos, reminding us of our integral role in nature’s grand tapestry. The exhibition also celebrates lush garden imagery, with etchings by Otilia Mândinescu Canavara, ‘Secret Garden,’ Nico Mitrache’s ‘Garden I and II,’ and Daniela Pasca’s ‘From My Garden,’ which revel in the vibrant, intimate beauty of cultivated and wild landscapes alike, urging a deeper appreciation and a call to preserve its fragile beauty for generations to come. Finally, Denissa Șerban Maschek‘s ‘Apres or Beyond Tomorrow’ offers a contemplative future and our resilience

Through these diverse interpretations, the artists remind us of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world, These works resonate as both a celebration of nature’s splendor and a poignant reminder of its vulnerability.

Radu Igazsag reinterprets mythological depth with ‘Penelope (A),’ a graphic installation that blends semiology with the evocative imagery of ancient weaving machines. This piece pays homage to creation, continuity, and perseverance through a striking mix of traditional and contemporary visual language. Edge mag

Radu Igazsag -Penelope (A)

The mystical and spiritual dimensions of the 13th Annual Romanian Graphic Arts Exhibition lead viewers on a mesmerizing journey through metaphysical themes and timeless archetypes. These works transcend the physical, intricately blending ancient symbols with contemporary techniques to craft visual narratives that provoke deep reflection and spiritual curiosity.

Ionela Lazureanu enthralls with ‘The Fallen Angel,’ a poignant exploration of loss, redemption, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. The piece’s emotive resonance and meticulous detail draw the viewer into a narrative that is at once deeply personal and universally relatable. Alexandra Mas presents ‘Treaty on Magic,’ a breathtaking mixed-media triptych that integrates etching, ink drawing, poetry, photography, and oil painting. This multilayered work explores mystical themes with poetic richness, offering a visual and intellectual feast that rewards sustained engagement. Mihai Călărași delivers ‘Story,’ a delicate yet profound symbolic piece. Its subtle imagery invites viewers to uncover its hidden layers of meaning, creating an intimate space for introspection and discovery. Radu Igazsag reinterprets mythological depth with ‘Penelope (A),’ a graphic installation that blends semiology with the evocative imagery of ancient weaving machines. This piece pays homage to creation, continuity, and perseverance through a striking mix of traditional and contemporary visual language. Vasili Pop-Negreșteanu contributes two works, including ‘Revelations from Nothingness I: Eye of the Creator.’ Cosmic abstractions and symbolic circles, his work explores themes of universal creation and divine intervention, drawing the viewer into a contemplative dialogue with the infinite. Silvia Şerban mesmerizes with ‘Genesis,’ a stunning piece that examines themes of origin and transformation through compelling imagery and sophisticated technique. Radu Cristian offers ‘Celestial Intervention,’ a masterful paper collage that combines traditional Japanese techniques with Western iconography. His dark, romantic universe merges celestial themes with an air of mysticism, crafting a strikingly unique visual language. Ioana Andrei captivates with her ink drawings and collage triptych that transports us into a Hitchcockian universe. With remarkable narrative power, each image unravels a story as compelling and layered as an entire film.

These distinctive works collectively serve as a bridge between the tangible and intangible, drawing from a rich tapestry of spiritual and mystical traditions. By reimagining these ideas through contemporary graphic practices, the artists celebrate the unseen forces that shape art, humanity, and the universe.

Nicoleta Mitrache - presents two etchings : Garden I and Garden II at the 13th edition of the Romanian Graphic arts , 2024

Nicoleta Mitrache – Garden II, etching

 

Alexandra Mas-Treaty on Magic, maximalist mixte media with etching, poetry, ink drawing and photography, all by the artist

Mihaela Dumitru Tranca

 

in order from the left: Albert Levente, Liviu Casandrei, Ioan Doru Vladoiu , and Adriana Lucaciu, the edge mag

in order from the left: Albert Levente, Liviu Casandrei, Ioan Doru Vladoiu, and Adriana Lucaciu

 

Abstract

A dynamic segment of the 13th Annual Romanian Graphic Arts Exhibition explores the cutting edge of digital creativity, where innovative tools and techniques redefine the boundaries of traditional graphic arts. These artists seamlessly blend technology with artistry, presenting works that are vibrant, thought-provoking, and boldly experimental.

Adriana Andrei dazzles with ‘What If…,’ a striking digital composition that ventures into the realms of abstract art and symmetry. Her piece transforms the screen into a grand canvas, merging meticulous digital drawing with the expansive freedom of abstract expression. Agneta Covrig, a consistent trailblazer, once again captivates audiences with her fluid constructivism. Her works embody a balance between structured geometry and organic flow, showcasing her mastery in navigating digital spaces. Of course, it is essential to highlight the contributions of Ioan Doru Vladiu, a master of digital arts, who holds a place of distinction in this XIIIth edition. His approach these mediums underscore the evolving limits of graphic arts, making his presence a cornerstone of this year’s exhibition.  Paula Craioveanu with her use of aluminum printing techniques, making the surface itself a vital component of the visual narrative. Valentino Juliano offers a refreshing traditional contrast with his light watercolor work, where the delicate play of transparency and hue creates an ethereal composition, while Roland Edgar Vasiliu presents ‘Abstract Inclusions,’ a standout example of digital precision. His intricate exploration of printed dots and layered textures demonstrates a modern take on traditional graphic techniques, pushing the limits of what can be achieved with digital tools. Ion Ilarion Isaila delves into the subconscious with “Structural I,”  an enigmatic work that melds abstract forms with psychological depth. His piece challenges viewers to unravel its layered meanings, inviting an introspective journey into structure and emotion.

Alexandra Mas-Treaty on Magic, maximalist mixte media with etching, poetry, ink drawing and photography, all by the artist

Adriana Andrei – What if…

 

 

An Invitation to Collect & Connect

The 13th Annual Romanian Graphic Arts Exhibition is an aesthetic experience, but also the opportunity to engage deeply with the vibrant world of contemporary Romanian art. With many works available for acquisition, the exhibition offers collectors and art enthusiasts a chance to support the artists and preserve their craft in a tangible way. For seasoned connoisseurs of graphic arts and newcomers alike, this exhibition is an unmissable cultural event. It invites you to immerse yourself in a celebration of talent, history, and innovation, an intellectual and visual journey that underscores the enduring relevance of graphic art.

A.I.M. Kovalevsky