WOOD / SHAPE / DESIGN

The ÚĽUV Design Studio regularly offers space for presentations by secondary schools from various design fields that are based on research into craft traditions and classic technologies, using natural raw materials and traditional materials or innovative processes. The current exhibition presents a selection of student works from the Design and Woodworking Department of the Josef Vydra School of Applied Arts in Bratislava over the past 25 years. The selection from this period represents a wide range of themes and approaches: combining traditional craft and design techniques, creating small utility items and jewelry, furniture, lighting, and toys, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of the students. All this is embodied in materials that refer to Slovakia’s natural wealth – its material culture, tradition and timelessness, but also its potential for use in contemporary design.

Exhibition title: WOOD / SHAPE / DESIGN – exhibition of the Wood Design and Shaping Department of the Josef Vydra School of Applied Arts
Location: ÚĽUV Design Studio, Dobrovičova 13, Bratislava
Open: Monday, Thursday, Friday | 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Duration: November 19, 2025 – February 27, 2026
Curators: Mária Hriešik Nepšinská, Andrej Vágner

Wood design and shaping at the Josef Vydra School of Applied Arts in Bratislava is the longest continuously operating field of study in Slovakia. Its history is linked to the woodcarving school that existed in Banská Štiavnica since 1884. It was not until 1951 that the woodcarving department, led by Anton Drexler, was moved to the State School of Applied Arts in Bratislava. Currently, in addition to developing talent, the aim is to teach students to comprehensively solve tasks in the field of wood design and shaping, furniture design, toys, or to apply themselves as independent artists or craftsmen. The best students can continue their studies at universities with an artistic focus, specializing in art history, architecture, or pedagogy.

Visitors to the ÚĽUV Design Studio can admire not only functional objects, interior accessories, furniture, objects, and jewelry, but also free creations inspired by craftsmanship.

We look forward to seeing you!