Academy of Fine Arts

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Academy of Fine Arts was firstly constructed as the only evangelist church in the times of the Austro-Hungarian occupation of BiH in 1898. The main initiator was the Austrian, Filip Balif while designed by Karlo Paržik [Czech]. This building consists of mostly. Romanesque – Byzantine , little bit of gothic and renaissance styles. After the WWII in 1945 the church was abandoned. In the 1972 authorities assigned the building to the Academy of Fine Arts. 

Academy of fine arts was established in 1972.  Academy for departments such as graphic design, product design,  painting, sculpting, printmaking and art education.In 1911 wing objects on both sides were adjoined which served the needs of the church. After it has become an academy of fine arts in the 1972 it was fully adapted to its use to nowadays.

The church was proclaimed a cultural-historical monument and is part of the list of protected buildings by the Institute for the Protection of Cultural-Historical and Natural Heritage.

What We Love About This Place

The Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo isn’t just a place of learning; it’s a vibrant hub of creativity and cultural exchange that captures the heart of the city. Nestled in the historic Baščaršija district, its walls echo with the whispers of artists who have walked its halls, each leaving a unique imprint on the tapestry of Bosnian art. Imagine walking through the academy during the annual "Sarajevo Winter Festival." The air is filled with excitement as students showcase their works, transforming the galleries into a kaleidoscope of colors and emotions. You might stumble upon a young painter passionately discussing her piece inspired by the lush landscapes of Bosnia, her eyes sparkling with hope and ambition. Nearby, a sculptor is chiseling away at a block of stone, creating a stunning piece that pays homage to the city’s rich history. Local traditions are woven into the fabric of the academy, with workshops that often celebrate Bosnia’s artistic heritage. One of the standout events is the "Art in the Open" exhibition, where students take their art to the streets, engaging passersby in conversations about their inspirations. It’s a lively atmosphere, filled with laughter and the sounds of street musicians, as art spills out of the confines of the gallery and into the vibrant life of the city. The academy also has a deep connection to the community. Each spring, the students host a charity auction, with proceeds going to local nonprofits. It’s heartwarming to see the students rally together, their pieces reflecting both their individual journeys and a collective desire to give back. The auction becomes a celebration of not just their talent but also their commitment to social change, drawing in art lovers from all over Sarajevo.

This Place is Important Because

(100 to 200 words):The Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo is not just an institution; it’s a beacon of cultural resilience and artistic innovation, deeply woven into the fabric of the city’s rich history. Situated in the heart of Sarajevo, a city that has long been a crossroads of cultures, this academy stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity, even in the face of adversity. Picture Sarajevo in the late 19th century, when it was a bustling hub at the confluence of Eastern and Western influences. The academy was established against this backdrop, a time when artists sought to blend diverse traditions into something uniquely their own. From its inception, the academy became a nurturing ground for talents who were eager to explore and express their identities amidst a melting pot of cultures. During the tumultuous years of the 1990s, when the city endured the hardships of war, the Academy of Fine Arts emerged as a sanctuary for creativity. In the shadows of conflict, artists flocked to its halls, using their art as a means of resistance and expression. One can imagine the passionate debates held in dimly lit classrooms, where students discussed the role of art in society, how to reclaim their narrative, and how to document their experiences through their work. The academy became a safe space, a place where hope flickered like candlelight amidst the darkness.

Special Tips

Visiting the Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant artistic community, but to truly enhance your experience, here are some insights and recommendations that will make your visit memorable. As you stroll through the academy, take a moment to seek out the lesser-known galleries. Often, student work is displayed in unexpected nooks—like the small, sunlit corner near the café where emerging artists showcase their latest pieces. One particular student’s installation, inspired by the flowing waters of the Miljacka River, had me captivated for hours, highlighting the beauty of Sarajevo’s landscapes. If you have the chance, try to attend a workshop or an artist talk. These events are often open to the public and provide a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with students and faculty. As you explore, embrace the local custom of drinking coffee. The academy has a charming café where you can enjoy a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee—rich, strong, and served in small cups. It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Walk along the cobblestone streets, listen to the distant sounds of traditional sevdah music, and allow the city’s spirit to envelop you
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