Masters of Tradition

The work of 80 masters of folk art production rewarded between 2011 and 2024.

Location: Gallery ÚĽUV, Obchodná 64, Bratislava
Opening hours: Monday to Friday | 12 pm – 6 pm
Duration: 27 March – 12 November 2025
Curators: Eva Ševčíková, Dominika Žažová
Layout: Daniela Kytková
Graphic design: Monika Bajlová
Text: Tomáš Mikolaj, Eva Ševčíková

ÚĽUV awarded the title of Master of Folk Art Production for the first time in 1959 and continues to recognize the most outstanding figures among folk art producers to this day. The social and professional prestige of this title has brought satisfaction to the artisans themselves while also serving as motivation for their fellow craftsmen and successors. It has often transformed anonymous artists “from the people” into respected bearers of traditional craft and role models for future generations in this field. This is undoubtedly one of the reasons—alongside the systematic efforts of ÚĽUV’s professional staff—why they now form a community that grows together in quality and whose direction is shaped by the finest masters.

To date, 454 individuals have been awarded the title of Master of Folk Art Production. This exhibition showcases the works of the most recent 80 masters, symbolically selected to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Centre for Folk Art Production. It presents the work of contemporary artisans, the majority of whom are still active today.

We can confidently say that they continue not only a traditional craft but also a way of life. Though this may no longer be purely in a material form, it persists in a spiritual dimension—through their approach to life and the values that guided them, the same values that adorned our ancestors over the centuries. These include, above all, independence, respect for life, responsibility for the future, a commitment to loyalty and sustainability, and often a humility paired with a healthy self-awareness—qualities that naturally arise from creative fulfilment, deep engagement with their craft, and true understanding.

At the beginning of this year, the program of awarding the title of Master of Folk Art Production was included on Slovakia’s List of the Best Practices for the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Nominated by ÚĽUV, this recognition honours both past and present generations of master artisans. May the legacy of their wisdom and craftsmanship endure for centuries to come.