The Exhibition of the International Art Colony Goričko 2026 Is Now Open
On Friday, the 19th of june, we opened an exhibition at Grad Castle featuring artworks created during the first International Art Colony Goričko 2026, which took place from 15 to 19 June at the Eta Estate in Markovci, within the Goričko Nature Park.
The exhibition will be open to visitors at Grad Castle until 1 September 2026. You are warmly invited to visit the exhibition and explore the artworks, which are also available for purchase.
Five established artists from three European countries – Slovenia, Hungary and the Netherlands – participated in the colony. Through their creative work, Igor Banfi, Milena Gregorčič, Barbara Kstelec, József Gyécsek and Bram D Hont each interpreted the landscape of Goričko in their own way, capturing its characteristic vistas, colours and the rhythm of life of the people who call it home.
Five artists captured the landscapes of Goričko in their artworks. S. Dešnik
The main objective of the colony was to connect art with the natural and cultural environment while creating opportunities for artists to meet, exchange ideas and strengthen international cooperation. The project was jointly organised by the Goričko Nature Park Public Institute, the Šalovci Institute for Tourism, Sport and Culture, the Mala Rosa Estate from Stanjevci, and Dr. Etelka Korpič-Horvat.
The artistic direction of the colony was led by academic painter Igor Banfi, whose professional guidance significantly contributed to the quality and recognition of the event. On this occasion, an exhibition catalogue was also published, featuring an accompanying essay by art historian Franc Obal, who provided an analytical perspective on the participating artists and their works. The exhibition catalogue is available here.
At the exhibition opening, Igor Banfi introduced the participating artists and the artistic stories captured in their works. S. Dešnik
A special value of this years colony was also the involvement of young creators. Pupils from the Primary School Šalovci and the Primary School Grad joined the artists during the creative process and enriched the event with their curiosity, creativity and genuine enthusiasm. Their artworks are also included in the exhibition and can be viewed alongside the works of the participating artists.
The successful implementation of such a project is the result of cooperation between many individuals and organisations that recognise the importance of art and culture in the local community. We therefore extend our sincere gratitude to all supporters, donors and partners who contributed to the successful organisation of the first International Art Colony Goričko 2026.
