Skopje, 3 April 2025 (MIA) — A retrospective exhibition organized by the state university's Faculty of Fine Arts to celebrate its 45th anniversary will open Thursday evening at the Museum of Contemporary Arts. On display will be 45 works by 45 artists.

Aiming to highlight the evolution of Macedonian art and artistic techiques over the past 45 years, the exhibit features works from the museum's collection as well as works on loan from faculty and artists, organizers said.

The retrospective show will also present archival photos and other contextual historical material related to the development of the Faculty of Fine Arts over the years. In addition, prominent alumni will give lectures on its contribution to national arts.

At the initiative of Macedonian composer Toma Proshev, the Faculty of Fine Arts was founded on March 31, 1980, as part of Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, three decades after the university itself was founded in 1949.

The first teachers on its faculty included renowned Macedonian artists Petar Mazev, Dimitar Kondovski, Rodoljub Anastasov, Dushan Perchinkov, Petar Hadzhi-Boshkov, and Dragutin Avramovski-Gute. Its alumni include contemporary artists, professors, designers and curators who actively participate in the national and international art scenes.

With study programs that include painting, printmaking, sculpture, new media, graphic design, conservation and restoration, scenography and fashion design, the Faculty of Fine Arts keeps in step with contemporary art trends, the release said.

Despite many challenges, according to the release, "the faculty remains dedicated to its mission to create generations of artists who will continue to shape Macedonian and world art."

"With 45 years behind it, the Faculty of Fine Arts has not only borne witness to the rich art history of Macedonia but has also served as a catalyst for its artistic future," the release said. mr/