(PHOTO) The National Gallery's permanent collection has been revived

The National Gallery’s permanent collection has been revitalized with key works returning to its display after being exhibited elsewhere. Among the pieces reintroduced are major masterpieces from the Slovenian realism and impressionism movements, which were previously showcased at exhibitions held at the Belvedere Gallery in Vienna and the Art Gallery of Dachau in Bavaria. These two exhibitions attracted over 110,000 visitors. The gallery has once again displayed well-known works such as Pred lovom by Jurij Šubic, Doma Jožefa Petkovška, Kofetarica, Poletje by Ivana Kobilca, Zamorka by Anton Ažbet, Rdeči parazol by Matej Sternen, Sejalec by Ivan Grohar, Kolo by Matija Jama, and Križanke v jeseni by Rihard Jakopič. Additionally, sculptural works including Žrtva by Franc Berneker, Humoreska by Alojz Gangl, and Požar by Ivan Zajec have returned to the collection. The updated collection includes artworks from both institutional and private ownership, some of which had not been publicly available for several years. Notably, the genre scene Pri zajtrku by Jurij Šubic has been newly included in the exhibition. The oeuvre of Ivana Kobilca has been enriched with essential works such as Starec, Otroci v travi, and Bošnjak s pipo, rare acquisitions from her Sarajevo period. Matija Jama is represented in the collection with his genre painting Pri obedu, the Impressionist work Tri breze, and an early modern urban genre Pred magistratom. The painting Henrik Czerny by Rihard Jakopič is one of the key early works of Slovenian Impressionism and has been reintegrated into the collection. Ivan Grohar is also featured with his early Impressionist piece Pod Koprivnikom. Among Matej Sternen’s recent additions is Devin, demonstrating the geographical reach of Slovenian Impressionism. August Berthold is highlighted through reproductions of sensitive original photographs. The collection has also been strengthened with works by the Secessionist painter Ivan Vavpotič. The renewed collection maintains a chronological overview of the main artistic styles developed in Slovenia. This update reflects a broader effort to enhance public access to historically significant works while ensuring their preservation and visibility. The inclusion of both long-standing and newly acquired pieces underscores the gallery's commitment to maintaining and expanding its holdings. The decision to bring these works back to the permanent collection was made following careful curation and restoration efforts aimed at presenting them in optimal condition. Among the notable returns is Otroci v travi by Ivana Kobilca, a rare acquisition from her Sarajevo period. The gallery has also reintroduced Henrik Czerny by Rihard Jakopič, a pivotal early work in Slovenian Impressionism. Ivan Grohar’s Pod Koprivnikom is another highlight, showcasing his early contributions to the movement. Matej Sternen’s Devin further illustrates the geographical influence of Slovenian Impressionism beyond local boundaries. August Berthold’s photographic works are presented through reproductions, offering insight into the sensitivity and technical skill of his original prints. The addition of Ivan Vavpotič’s works enriches the Secessionist section of the collection. The changes to the permanent collection align with ongoing initiatives to expand and diversify the gallery’s offerings. By integrating new acquisitions and restoring existing works, the National Gallery aims to provide a more comprehensive representation of Slovenia’s visual arts heritage. The inclusion of pieces from private collections highlights the collaborative nature of cultural preservation efforts. These updates ensure that the collection remains relevant and accessible to both scholars and the general public. The gallery continues to refine its approach to curating and displaying its holdings, ensuring that each addition contributes meaningfully to the historical narrative of Slovenian art. With this latest update, the National Gallery reinforces its role as a vital institution for preserving and promoting the country’s artistic legacy. The collection now offers a richer and more nuanced view of the evolution of artistic styles in Slovenia, reflecting both past achievements and contemporary relevance.