Additional 600 square meters for artists in Cvijeta Zuzoric art pavilion - About EUR 800,000 required for adaptation of exhibition space

The exhibition space of the art pavilion Cvijeta Zuzoric in Belgrade may soon span 1,350 square meters, nearly twice as much as now, if a preliminary project envisaging the adaptation of this state-protected facility is approved and implemented. The project design authored by Jelena Kuzmanovic, Jelena Petrovic and Branislav Mitrovic from Mit-arh bureau envisages reorganization of the cellar, as well as reconstruction of the attic, with the aim of providing a new level exclusively intended for artists.

Architects answered the call of Vukasin Milovic, chairman of the Managing Board of Cvijeta Zuzoric, to assess the condition of the facility and make a plan for possible works. While designing the project, they were guided by the idea to provide the maximum utility value for the newly renewed space and had in mind that Cvijeta Zuzoric is under the state's protection.

(future look of the pavilion)

- With this project we've tried to draw attention to everything that this art pavilion could offer, as well as to present it in a new light. There has been no investment in Cvijeta Zuzoric since its reconstruction in 1976 – Vukasin Milovic, chairman of the Managin Board of the art pavilion, explains for eKapija.

The two existing stairways should be removed and there should be only one to connect three floors - the two existing floors (ground floor and gallery) and a new one in the roof zone. That new level would be a result of reconstruction of the attic space and installation of a light prefabricated structure. In that way, the pavilion would have another brand new exhibition space at its disposal.

(exhibition space in the cellar)

According to the preliminary design, the entrance on a side of the building would be considered the main entrance. A cloakroom and a ticket office would be situated in the entrance hall, while the ground floor should be emptied. Reorganization of the cellar would lead to creation of a new exhibition space, but there should also be a possibility to place a space for administration and curators, a library, and a depot on that level.

The art pavilion, which was built in 1928 according to the project of architect Branislav Kojic, requires the conservation of the exterior as well.

(new floor)

Vukasin Milovic notes that all cultural facilities in Serbia, galleries and museums in particular, are more than neglected and that we can get an impression that the state does not care much for the art. His estimates are that minimum EUR 800,000 are required for the implementation of this project.

- Nevertheless, there should be someone interested in investing in culture - Mr. Milovic expresses his hope.

People at the art pavilion told eKapija they were very satisfied with the project and that it could be easily implemented with some small changes, but that they were also open to other proposals and ideas.