02 ISSN 1854-0805 February 2012

The latest from Slovenia

The new Government’s main challenge is to bring Slovenia out of the crisis

• INTERVIEW: Matjaž Vipotnik and Jože Snoj • ART & CULTURE: Prešeren awards 2012 • OUR EXCELLENCE: Krka • SPORTS: Rebirth of ski jumping • PEOPLE: Marko Pavlinec • SLOVENIAN DELIGHTS: Gostilna Na gradu contents editorial

6 In focus New Slovenian Government takes oath of office 8 Showcasing Slovenia – Milano 2012 10 Interview The designer Matjaž Vipotnik and the writer Jože Snoj are this year’s Prešeren Laureates

14 Vesna Žarkovič, Editor Business 16 The new Government’s main challenge – Before and after In focus Interview to bring Slovenia out of the crisis It was a pioneering time 20 Slovenia now has its tenth Government, the second under Janez Janša. This is A letter actually an anti-crisis government and team, the new Prime Minister, Janez Janša, Mitja Čander, Bernarda Gradišnik explained at the appointment of the new Government. Certain issues, which 22 would in other more normal times perhaps have been at the top of the agenda, Art & culture will just have to wait, although we will make every effort to ensure that noth- ing is left forgotten. The Government will first deal with budget revision and fiscal Prešeren awards 2012 consolidation, and then it will be the turn of structural reforms. This sequence is 27 very important, said Mr Janša who emphasised that it would be of no help if the Our excellence pension reform is adopted within the next three months – the effects of which will Krka ranks among the world’s best companies only show in the public finances much later – when no solutions are adopted for 30 the interim. Green corner Green corner The award ceremony of the highest national awards in the field of culture – the Seed Library Prešeren Award and the Prešeren Fund Award – took place on the eve of the Slove- 32 nian Cultural Holiday. This year’s recipients of the Prešeren Award were the writer, People Jože Snoj, and the designer, Matjaž Vipotnik, who are introduced in more detail Aesthetics + functionality = Marko Pavlinec in our interview. The poet, writer, essayist, critic, journalist and editor, Jože Snoj, contents 36 presents images from his poetic world in a unique language with original words, Sports new word meanings and unfamiliar sentence structure. The designer, Matjaž Vi- potnik, has made his distinctive and far-reaching influence felt on the develop- Rebirth of ski jumping ment of graphic design in Slovenia and the former Yugoslavia since the 1970s. He People 38 has undoubtedly been instrumental in making the high standard of Slovenian de- Slovenian delights sign known throughout the world. Through his originality, he has influenced the- Gostilna Na gradu then often stereotypical perception of the profession and set the standards for the 42 expansion of visual communications in Slovenia. Society We publish the memoirs of some Slovenian diplomats on Slovenia’s interna- Carnival – a time for celebration and joy tional recognition on the occasion of its twentieth anniversary: International rec- 44 ognition brought great joy, relief and honour — That evening, after hearing about Heritage all the dead and injured, I realised that Yugoslavia – even as a loose federation – The castle which marks the city was no more. — There was no way back. The opening day of the European Culture Capital 2012 in Maribor was marked Art & culture by an ambitious staging of the opera Black Masks by the Slovenian composer, Marij Kogoj. Less than a week after the opera’s premiere, which can be counted SINFO – SLOVENIAN INFORMATION Editorial: Government Communication Office, among the greatest projects undertaken by the Capital of Culture, the Slovenian Director: Anže Logar, Gregorčičeva 25, 1000 Ljubljana, theatre-going public was able to see a glamorous performance of a lesser known tel. +386 (0) 1 478 2630, fax + 386 (0) 1 251 2312, www.ukom.gov.si Editor-in-Chief: Valerija Obu play by Brecht: The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. The European Capital of Culture Executive Editor: Vesna Žarkovič, [email protected] staged a daring performance, which holds a mirror to the face of Europe – to its Our excellence Editorial Board: Mateja Malnar Štembal, Jože Osterman, Polona Prešeren, Hana Souček Morača, Nataša Marvin, Manja Kostevc increasingly arrogant capitalism on one side and its progressively helpless democ- Photo Editor: Janez Vidrih racy on the other. Production: Nuit d.o.o., Translation: Amidas, DZTPS, Government Translation and Interpretation Division The London Olympic Games present a fantastic opportunity for the promo- Printed by: Collegium Graphicum d.o.o., Slovenia, Number of copies: 4600 tion of Slovenia’s sport, landscape and location, politics, strategies, business and Available also at: www.ukom.gov.si/eng/slovenia/publication/sinfo Cover photo: Borut Peterlin tourism. The Olympic Games are the biggest sports event in the world, bringing together practically all the countries of this planet in a city that feels close to us Government Communication Office: www.slovenia.si Government Communication Office: www.ukom.gov.si and in a country that is favourably inclined towards Slovenia. Slovenia simply had Government of the Republic of Slovenia: www.vlada.si to seize this opportunity to present itself, not only through sport, but also through Slovenian Tourist Board: www.slovenia.info Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry: www.gzs.si the Slovenia House. The Slovenia House will bring together athletes, members of Slovenian Chamber of Craft: www.ozs.si Team Slovenia and sports enthusiasts. It will promote Slovenia in the field of sport, Public Agency for Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investments: www.japti.si Ljubljana Stock Exchange: www.ljse.si economy, tourism and culture under the following themes: Sports of Slovenia, Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia: www.stat.si Green Slovenia, Taste Slovenia, Culture of Slovenia, Business with Slovenia and State Portal of the Republic of Slovenia: http://e-uprava.gov.si Visit Slovenia. Society Slovenian delights Heritage Sinfo – Slovenian information 3 : in focus : : :

Vesna Žarkovič, photo:STA The basis for the function- growth and the creation of economic growth, which have JANEZ JANŠA’S NEW ing of the new Government new jobs are fundamental. not yet been implemented. GOVERNMENT is the coalition agreement Fiscal consolidation means ‘This task still needs to be ad- which may, if necessary, also making adjustments, which is dressed’, added Janša. NEW SLOVENIAN GOVERNMENT TAKES OATH OF OFFICE – LAUNCHING NEW ECONOMIC CYCLE Vinko Gorenak be amended, provided that all imperative if the country is Because in the current (Slovenian Democratic Party – five partners give their con- to preserve the functioning situation, many things can SDS), Minister of the Interior sent to this effect. ‘For us, the of vital systems and sub-sys- only be achieved on the basis coalition agreement is the law tems that provide for a nor- of good cooperation between Žiga Turk Janez Janša’s second Government and on which the Government mal life. According to Janša’s various institutions, this as- (Slovenian Democratic Party stands or falls. However, it is prognosis, the adoption of pect was a point of particu- th – SDS), Minister of Education, not inflexible to the point that this year’s supplementary lar emphasis in the coalition the 10 Slovenian Government Science, Culture and Sport it cannot be re-shaped. There budget will have to involve a agreement. Within its pow- will be situations when cer- 10% reduction in public ex- ers, the Government will do Andrej Vizjak tain things will need to be up- penditure. While drafting a its utmost to ensure that co- On 10 February 2012, Janez Janša’s second Government took the (Slovenian Democratic Party – graded. When we reach that supplementary budget, the operation between Slovenian oath of office, with 50 votes cast in favour of its appointment. SDS), Minister of Labour, Family point, we’ll do that by con- Government will also prepare institutions will be at the de- and Social Affairs sensus’, said Janša. a social agreement aimed at sired level and for the benefit Following his appointment, Janša said that Slovenia’s political Former Prime Minister redistributing the burdens of of all. ‘We have all taken an crisis had thus ended, while the first challenge would be the Zvonko Černač Borut Pahor transferred his the crisis. Moreover, it will of- oath that we will work for the adoption of a supplementary budget. Public expenditure will (Slovenian Democratic Party – duties to Janez Janša on the fer a partnership for coopera- welfare of Slovenia, and our have to be reduced by 10%. ‘This cannot be done linearly, because SDS), Minister of Infrastructure same day. ‘As a citizen and tion to both opposition par- Government takes this com- there are no reserves in some places; we’ll therefore have to cut and Spatial Planning as a political leader still ac- ties. Structural reforms will be mitment very seriously,’ con- deeper where the reserves exist’, announced Janša. tive in Slovenian public and addressed later. cluded Prime Minister Janša. Aleš Hojs political life, I look to the fu- (New Slovenia - NSi), Minister ture and see many questions. MEASURES TO BOOST CONSTRUCTIVE OPPOSITION of Defence I am completely sure about ECONOMIC GROWTH one thing, however, and that Both opposition parties Ljudmila Novak is that together, we can suc- Fiscal consolidation is represented in the National (New Slovenia – NSi), Minister ceed’, said Pahor during the only the first step to bring Assembly, i.e. Positive Slove- without Portfolio for Relations handover ceremony. the country out of the crisis. nia and the Social Democrats, between the Republic of According to the new Prime have announced their stance Slovenia and the Autochthonous PUBLIC EXPENDITURE TO Minister, merely reducing ex- of constructive opposition. Slovenian National Community BE REDUCED BY 10% – penditure will not be enough The president of Positive Slo- in Neighbouring Countries, STRUCTURAL REFORMS NEXT to overcome the crisis. Equal- venia, Zoran Janković, said and between the Republic of IN LINE ly and possibly more impor- that the overall idea of the Slovenia and Slovenians Abroad tant is the implementation of Government’s programme The new Government is measures to boost economic seemed good, but neverthe- Radovan Žerjav counting on two things: fiscal growth. These measures in- less pointed out that auster- (Slovenian People’s Party – consolidation and the start of clude those intended to bring ity measures alone would SLS), Minister of Economic a new economic cycle. ‘The an end to the late payment not suffice to overcome the Development and Technology team you are deciding on to- culture, to eliminate bureau- current crisis. They will, by day is faced with a great and cratic obstacles to the site se- all means, have to be accom- Franc Bogovič difficult challenge. This is a lection of various facilities, to panied by enhanced invest- (Slovenian People’s Party – term of office, at the begin- shorten the duration of legal ments. According to Janković, SLS), Minister of Agriculture ning of which nothing spec- disputes for small and medi- his party intends to give its and the Environment tacular can be expected, only um-sized enterprises, to re- support to any proposal that hard work,’ said Janša in as- duce labour costs, to facilitate will be for the benefit of our Janez Šušteršič sessing the situation of the tax relief on investments, to citizens. (Gregor Virant Civic List – new Government during the ensure the progressive reduc- In his address, the Slove- DLGV), Minister of Finance current crisis. tion of the corporate income nian President Danilo Türk The main objective and tax rate and to bring an end to highlighted the importance Senko Pličanič measures envisaged by the the credit crunch. of the quality of the Govern- (Gregor Virant Civic List – Government to support this Janša went on to explain ment’s work and mutual co- DLGV), Minister of Justice and objective in implementing the that we may expect ‘a certain operation. In his view, the Public Administration coalition programme is to en- cut in our credit ratings’ in appointment of the new Gov- sure that, from 2013 onwards, the coming weeks. Moreover, ernment has taken place in Karl Erjavec Slovenia will develop at a rate putting an end to the political a time that is more exacting (Democratic Party of Pensioners exceeding the EU average and crisis did not in itself resolve than any other period of time of Slovenia – DeSUS), Minister raise employment, thereby the issue of practical mea- in the recent past. This is a time of Foreign Affairs improving the standard of liv- sures for the recovery and that many people perceive as ing and welfare. Within this consolidation of Slovenian a period requiring serious and Tomaž Gantar context, fiscal consolidation, public finances and for pro- fundamental changes, added (Democratic Party of Pensioners the stimulation of economic viding renewed impetus to President Türk. of Slovenia – DeSUS), Minister of Health

4 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 5 : in focus : : :

Government Communication Office, photo: Giordano Marco Riboli, Alenka Slavinec

SHOWCASING SLOVENIA

Milano 2012

Slovenia is being presented in Milan and Lombardy between 10 February and 1 April on the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Slovenia and Italy. This cultural, tourist and economic/political presentation of Slovenia is being conducted under the slogan I Feel Slovenia – Feel the Green. The various events that have taken place began with a well-received exhibition of the work of Zoran Mušič in Legnano, which has been very well attended since its opening on 19 November.

The “green” thread of Slo- The opening of a street photog- the show over a two-week pe- always exceptionally interest- venia’s promotion in Milan be- raphy exhibition on beautiful riod. Slovenian photographers ing way, rarely seen even by gan with a presentation and the green sites in Slovenia, I Feel have managed to capture some those who live there. Slovenia tasting of a selection of Slove- Slovenia. Cogli il verde was also exceptional images of known is therefore being presented in nian protected and ecological highlighted in green, and held and virtually unknown Slo- a new way, which emphasises agricultural products and ex- at Corso Vittorio Emanuele in venian places and regions, in the broad diversity it encap- quisite wines, and a presenta- Milan, where some two million which the natural light reveals sulates within its rather small tion of Slovenian tourist farms. passers-by are expected to see them in a rather different, but territory. However, all these

distinctions are united by green exceptional power, quality and overview of Miljenko Licula’s Tourism is an important field – the typical colour of the Slo- specific character of modern work for the Slovenian state, as for Slovenian-Italian econom- venian landscape – which is design in Slovenia. The open- he designed most of the items ic cooperation. The Slovenian also denoted in the Slovenian ing of the exhibition featured by which have had an important Tourist Board will mark this co- trademark, I Feel Slovenia. a concert by the group, Sounds role in defining the visual im- operation with a traditional Slo- of Slovenia. During the course age of Slovenia and co-creating venian evening and by present- “SILENT REVOLUTIONS” of the exhibition, there was also its identity – currency, ID docu- ing awards to the journalists. The a round table on the theme of ments, official printed materi- tourist presentation of Slovenia The central event of Slove- women in design. Slovenia was als, images of institutions, etc. will also be promoted with a nia’s presentation in Milan was represented by Lara Bohinc presentation of Slovenian tour- the opening of the Silent Revo- and Nika Zupanc, two of Slove- INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC ism at Milan’s Borsa Interna- lutions exhibition at La Trien- nia’s most successful designers COOPERATION tional Tourism Exchange (BIT) nale Design Museum. abroad. between 16 and 19 February. The exhibition features a se- In addition to Sounds of The exhibition also serves The coordinator of the proj- lection of innovative products Slovenia, Slovenian music was as a back-drop for meetings ect is the Government Commu- created in the first two decades also represented by the Slove- between senior political and nication Office of the Republic of this young European coun- nian Chamber Choir, under the economic representatives from of Slovenia in cooperation with try’s existence, and includes baton of Martina Batič, offering Slovenia and Lombardy. The po- the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, design as an important com- a rich programme of Slovenian litical/economic presentation of the Ministry of Economic De- ponent in development and and European choral music at Slovenia took place on 14 Febru- velopment and Technology, the gaining a competitive advan- the Auditorium di Milano. The ary. The Business Forum intro- Ministry of Education, Science, tage. The selection illustrates Slovenia in Us exhibition on duced the business and invest- Culture and Sport, the Ministry the innovative approaches, ex- Lipizzaner horses by the pho- ment environment in Slovenia, of Agriculture and the Environ- ceptional strategies, inspiring tographer, Alenka Slavinec, surveyed economic cooperation ment, the Public Agency of the visions and new approaches served as the introduction to the with Italy, presented Slovenian Republic of Slovenia for Entre- adopted by designers, clients, concert at the Auditorium. The investment projects, sectoral preneurship and Foreign Invest- manufacturers and companies photographs of the Lipizzaner opportunities and fairs in Slove- ments, the Slovenian Tourist who played a key role in pro- horses represent Slovenia’s nia, and business opportunities Board, the Museum of Archi- ducing the items on show. The twenty years of independence. in the Italian market. The Forum tecture and Design, the Munici- wide spectrum of new prod- The Designing for the State also anticipates many meetings pality of Ljubljana and others, ucts combined with historical exhibition is of special symbolic between Slovenian and Italian including many partners from and iconic objects reflects the importance – it presents an businessmen. I t a ly.

6 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 7 INTERVIEW THE DESIGNER MATJAŽ VIPOTNIK AND THE WRITER JOŽE SNOJ Hana Souček Morača Photo: STA ARE THIS YEAR’S PREŠEREN LAUREATES

Poet, writer, essayist, critic, journalist original secret of life. He graduated and editor Jože Snoj depicts his poet- in Slavic studies and comparative lit- JOŽE SNOJ: ic and literary world in a unique lan- erature from the Faculty of Arts. He guage of original words, new mean- worked as a journalist for the Delo ings, and surprisingly constructed newspaper and was an editor at the resistance to the violence of ideologies sentences. In his literary work, Snoj Državna založba Slovenije publish- and the awakening of faith creates a multilayered image of the ing house. Among other items, his restless 20th century in the light of bibliography includes more than ten into the ethical power of words relations between the individual, the collections of poems, several novels, world and history. He combines aes- and almost twenty works for chil- thetic and ethical questions into an dren. He has received several awards inseparable unity, thereby resisting for his work, including the Prešeren the violence of ideologies and the Fund Award, the Rožanc Award, the suppression of humanity with his Jenko and Veronika Awards, and the artistic language and recalling the Levstik Award twice.

What does the award of the served – and still serves – as and religion are combined in the position of Slovenian liter- greatest Slovenian acknowl- a source of my most intimate it like two faces of the ‘Same’ ature up to the 1990s and what edgement in culture mean to understandings about life, in- in upper case. The origin of my has changed today? you? cluding the philosophy of the theological poetics or, vice ver- Not only journalists, but In receiving the award, the absurd and its most sensible sa, poetical theology, is in this also all us ‘everyperson’ have most significant thing is that nonsense – Christ’s death on conjunction. never been and will never be what I strove for in life and the cross. able to achieve full autonomy literature is more widely and I read one of your self-de- due to various pressures from ‘more publicly’ confirmed. And What memories do you scriptions which said you are a society – no matter how ‘ideal’, I have tried – during the period have of your teenage years, ‘pagan Christian full of fleshly it will never be perfect. True art of one-minded Communist rule and then of your Slavic and doubts and rational reserva- was the herald of an upright – to recall to public conscience comparative literature studies tions’. What kind of person are human posture during Com- with a poetic word a person’s at the university? you? munist one-mindedness, but spiritual essence, and the hor- I was – luckily I managed to I am a sensual and also a nowadays, it has lost its role. ror and consequences of our avoid prison – already a severe spiritual person, torn between But it will – I am certain of it – fratricidal struggle during the critic of the ruling ideology in biology and spirit, like all peo- regain it when the people under Second World War and after. high school. It proved fortu- ple - between the struggle of all the mammon of capital have nate for me later that with this against each for survival and suffered enough. The Second World War had loud antagonism I was seen as the desire for something higher, an exceptional impact on your a ‘western existentialist’, and nicer, better, and above all, sen- Your books for children childhood. You have written a that I lost a position as assistant sible. And as such, I am there- and youth are variegated with lot about the war and post-war lecturer and a university career fore a pagan Christian or, vice regard to sound and rhythm period. Did your life as a refu- which would surely have hin- versa, a Christian pagan. and are based on word play. gee, after you fled from Mari- dered my literary work. In the verses in the poem Stop bor to the Dolenjsko region, On receiving the first Josip za pesmico (Stop for a Little and later from the Communists In your work, we often find Jurčič Fund Award, you said: ‘It Poem), word play is depicted to Ljubljana, leave a particular a word, one in lower case and has never been easy for jour- as a fragile creature, which can mark on you? one in upper case. With poeti- nalists to acquire autonomy. If express laughter and cry. Can As a prematurely adult cism and theology. they were severely monitored poetry educate? child, the war experiences of The language of a man who by politicians in the past, they My texts for children are ex- fighting, bombing, corpses, etc. long ago became self-aware are nowadays rather under the actly how you describe them. All undoubtedly left an indelible is ‘the house of Spirit’ and the influence of the censorship of art enriches with its beauty, and impression on my memory. It word is his harbinger. Poetry capital …’ How do you evaluate in this sense it also educates.

8 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 9 In 1988 and 1989, you and and as a nation, we achieved helped us. This was our great My uncle Franc Snoj was a Spomenka Hribar were the the most that could have been good fortune, which unfortu- great idealist, and he paid for his editors of Nova revija, which achieved. Our hopes were ful- nately many of us are not aware idealism with harsh imprison- published texts by Slovenian filled - never mind if they have of. Rudi Šeligo was aware of it, ment and an early death after and other Yugoslav intellec- to be fulfilled again and cher- and that made him what he was, Kidrič had tactically welcomed tuals. These texts were later ished for the future. and he will remain as such. him into the first Slovenian incorporated into the founda- government. Neither the right tions of the Slovenian constitu- You also participated in Among other things, your nor the left ideologies or po- tion and the establishment of the formation of the Slovenian uncle France Snoj was also a litical factions consider him as Demos, which took power af- national cultural programme, minister in one of the old Yugo- their own, and he thus remains ter the first elections. You have which Rudi Šeligo, a writer, slav royal governments, and he practically anonymous. I recall written a lot about Slovenia’s sociologist and Minister of Cul- went into exile with it. During memories of him when I have independence in the 1980s. ture, who died before his time, the last year of the war, he re- the opportunity. All best wishes How do you remember those particularly strove for. Are the turned from London and joined to Slovenia on its twentieth an- times? Slovenians a people of culture? the partisans ‘to unite brothers niversary and a kiss – as is fit- Those were the most dan- All peoples are peoples of in conflict’. What would you ting for people who are close to gerous and most beautiful culture. Unfortunately, it has not wish for Slovenia for its twen- our hearts and celebrating a ju- times of my life. As individuals helped others as much as it has tieth anniversary? bilee.

10 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 11 INTERVIEW THE DESIGNER MATJAŽ VIPOTNIK AND THE WRITER JOŽE SNOJ Vesna Žarkovič Photo: STA ARE THIS YEAR’S PREŠEREN LAUREATES

Matjaž Vipotnik has received many at the Museum of Modern Art in New awards, the first in 1966 for book de- York. He has been awarded countless MATJAŽ VIPOTNIK: sign and graphics; the Prešeren Fund accolades for his painting, graphic, Award for design in 1975; and most set design and design work, but the the disease of hyper-capitalism and financial lobbies recently in 2010 for the most beauti- prestigious Prešeren Award he re- and the pursuit of profit have pushed the limits ful book. Last year, his BIO 6 poster ceived this year is his greatest recog- was included in the Study Collection nition yet – the crown of his work. of good taste

The citation states that you and synthesis. We got on really exciting. It is both a profession ism with a human face…This can received the Prešeren Award well. Later, when I went to Italy and a hobby. This is the privilege be confirmed solely by the fact for achievements in graphic to study and after my return to for creators in culture. that Marx on the Bicycle was ac- design because of your inimi- Ljubljana, Professor Brumen tually printed. I have to say that table and decisive influence on continued to keep a close eye on You have carried the repu- it was the Marxist philosopher, the development of graphic de- my development. We met fre- tation of quality Slovenian de- Lev Kreft, who greatly contrib- sign in Slovenia and the former quently, drank coffee, and ana- sign into the world. With your uted to this with his open point Yugoslavia since the 1970s. Mr lysed my posters, which were original ideas, you influenced of view. Also later, when the Ital- Matjaž Vipotnik, how do you then already on display in the what had thus far often been ian left faction adopted this mo- remember starting out? urban environment. Upon the a stereotypical understand- tif and placed it at the centre of Whilst I was at the Second- publication of Kosovel’s Inte- ing of the profession, and you activities at the Festa de l’Unità ary School for Design in Lju- grali ‘26, which was prepared set “standards” for the expan- demonstration, Marx won over bljana, I occasionally published for publication by Professor An- sion of visual communications the Italian media overnight. So, vignettes in the cultural supple- ton Ocvirk and designed by Pro- in Slovenia. Where did you get this was a hit at the right mo- ment of Delo newspaper and fessor Brumen, our discussions the idea for the Karl Marx on ment and in the right place. illustrated contributions in its lasted for hours. Artistic move- the Bicycle poster – a popular supplement, Najdihojca. The ments such as Futurism, Con- and globalised image – and how You actually predicted the school did not allow us to pub- structivism, Suprematism and was it accepted then? future with these provoca- lish our art works – that is, prior Dadaism were unknown to us at Marx on the Bicycle was tive ideas. Your posters were to the publication of a piece, ap- the time, and there wasn’t much quite popular because everyone the subject of controversy, proval needed to be obtained by in the way of expert literature. interpreted it in their own way, they were talked about, writ- one of the professors. I did not Apart from Professor Brumen and it foresaw the changes that ten about in newspapers; edi- seek approval. When a scandal and my father, I knew few peo- were to come. It signalled the tions were even destroyed or broke and the school wanted to ple with whom I could discuss imminent fall of the Commu- confiscated. No other Slovenian take disciplinary action, Profes- such matters; I knew only the nist nomenklatura and the end graphic designer since has been sor Stane Dremelj took me un- writer, Jože Javoršek, the film of a period which was known allowed to address the public der his wing. He simply told his director, France Kosmač, and, of as a state of repressive tolerance. in such an expressive manner. colleagues in the staff room that course, Stane Bernik, who had The philosopher, Karl Marx, Such behaviour was undoubt- he had approved publication. just then started publishing the had nothing to do with this; it edly considered avant-garde in When I was in the third year, magazine Sinteza. was politicians who actually those days. Jože Brumen, an architectural misused Marx’s ideas. Socialist It was a reflection of events engineer, came to lecture at the The citation also states that countries applied this in prac- in society, and a dangerous school. I think that was when it would be difficult to find such tice; in Yugoslavia, this reality tightrope to walk. Similar ten- things became serious. Profes- a prolific graphic designer and and arbitrariness were the least dencies were manifest in criti- sor Brumen had studied sculp- person who is so zealously ded- painful. There is no comparison cal essay writing and literature ture at the Academy of Fine icated to his profession. What with the situation in the former at the time. Journalists and Arts, and architecture at the made you so “dedicated”? From Soviet Union and the regime that editors of periodicals were the Faculty of Architecture, and was where do you draw, or have you political scientists named “real most loyal to the regime back involved in graphic design. He drawn, your creativity and in- socialism”. But, in all fairness, then. They spoke of some sort of was well-read and had a versa- spiration for such considerable I have to admit that there were self-censorship…The exception, tile mind. He taught us to work achievements? great differences in Yugoslavia; naturally, was the magazine methodically, how to approach Unlike the work of people the regime in Slovenia was less Mladina. In an interview for the tasks in a conceptual manner, on production lines, the work of strict than in Yugoslavia’s other Croatian magazine Danas, the and the importance of analysis a graphic designer is much more republics. Some called it social- managing editor himself cen-

12 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 13 sored me after I had rejected a what are your views on post- der packaging. By taking this book production, I was natu- ship-revision copy marked the ideals which Zdravljica inspires. with the words: “How quiet and unfortunate measure also has a correction he made to my in- ers and the theatre in Slovenia point of view, I certainly do not rally interested in the origins third stanza of Zdravljica (“Let We are still provincial, narrow- dark it would be if culture were positive side. People who work terview in which I mentioned now – do they still change the want to undermine the impor- of books. I wrote several short peace, glad conciliation…”) with minded, ambitious, quarrel- silenced!” in culture – those on the left and the “fascism of real socialism” world and provide material for tance of design for commercial essays on Gutenberg’s inven- a red line; this angered the poet some and divided. I think that Indeed, it would be as silent the right – were suddenly united. in the Soviet Union. I have to say discussion? purposes, but this no longer in- tion of movable type printing, so much, that he crossed out it was no accident that the poet as the grave. I very much enjoyed I joined them outside Cankarjev that he was a skilled journalist. They do. But today, our ur- terests me. I am rather annoyed on the beginning and historical and eliminated the entire poem began the poem with an address Pograjc’s concept (director and dom before the Prešeren Award He came up with the term “vis- ban space is saturated with by supermarket advertising. development of books during himself. In short, Prešeren did to his friends, because it was screen-writer Matjaž Pograjc, in- ceremony and lit a candle. But I à-vis”, and published the cor- commercial billboards which The slogans themselves speak the Renaissance, on calligra- not allow an abridged poem they – Čop, Smole and Kaste- terviewer’s note) of darkening. It cannot happily join a crowd who rection in the next issue, which overshadow the relatively small of the spiritual level of adver- phers, typographers, bookbind- to be printed. And that is why lic – rare educated people, who was something I completely un- were so boorish and vulgar upon stated: fascism – vis-à-vis real cultural posters on display and tising today. Their purpose is to ers, publishers and printers. I Zdravljica was not included in helped him survive in what was derstood – in itself, it achieved the arrival of the new minister, socialism. After the breakup of pollute our urban areas. Pollu- extract money from the poor undertook this theoretical re- the first edition of Poezije, which then a spiritual wasteland. the power of an artistic act. Of Žiga Turk. Complete silence from Yugoslavia, this person – how tion can also be spiritual. The consumer’s pocket in the easiest search because I wanted to bet- was printed by the Ljubljana course, I understand the posi- the cultural workers assembled typical – ended up in the Croa- disease of hyper-capitalism and way possible. Have you noticed ter understand the work of my printer, Južef Blaznik, in 1847. I At the end of this year’s tion of the Slovenian Govern- and a silent double row in the tian Democratic Union. financial lobbies and the pursuit how many commercials use the predecessors, and also because also believe that nothing can be central cultural performance, ment – which faces many budget passage in front of the lower en- of profit have pushed the limits magic word “more”? For ex- I thought that this aspect of taken away or added to Zdrav- entitled Culture? Yes, please!, crises – but I think that it made trance to Cankarjev dom would With such comprehension, of good taste. Even when I am ample, you get “more” at Obi’s, cultural/technical history had ljica – everything fundamental there was a minute of silence, a political mistake by abolishing have been a better way to make a enlightenment and engage- watching a film, the national “more” car for your money, and been neglected. I selected the is already in it. Today’s society and the hostess, Blažka Müller the independent Ministry of Cul- statement. Perhaps there will be ment, you held a mirror up to television station forces me to “more” music, less talking. An most important masters from is a long way from attaining the Pograjc, ended the ceremony ture. The irony of fate is that this other opportunities to do so. society and changed it. Did you watch loathsome commercials American professor of design, the many printers who worked have problems with the au- for toothpaste and Lekadol tab- Victor Papanek, wrote about on the European continent, and thorities or other institutions as lets. this problem in the 1980s – on in England and America be- a result? how design is integrated with tween the Renaissance and the Yes. Publishing house direc- Your posters were major agencies, wholesalers and capi- 20th century; that is, those who tors rejected several of my book graphic and artistic achieve- talists. In short, on the disease could be considered innova- designs, which they deemed to ments and served as the bench- that is the consumer society. tors and who contributed to the be too expressive. A court in Za- mark for visual messages. Is development and image of the greb confiscated and destroyed this the result of the broad The theatre also had an im- printed book. I have done the the entire edition of posters for knowledge you acquired during portant role throughout your same for my many colleagues the Prisoners of Freedom per- your studies abroad or internal life, so set design was a logical who acquired their designer de- formance by Mladinsko The- inspiration? continuation. What have your grees in my former studio. To- atre. The Yugoslav federal state It is a combination of all experiences been in this aspect day, many of them are very suc- prosecutor requested that the those factors. In particular, it is of your work? cessful independent designers. badges I had designed be de- the result of hard work, persis- I have a really close circle of stroyed and not distributed, but tence and dedication, and also designer friends: Oskar Kogoj, Can you give us some names? the Slovenian state prosecutor an appreciation of the times and Jani Bavčer, Peter Skalar, Janez Metka Sitar, Miran Mohar, always rejected these requests the social momentum at play. It Suhadolc, Evita Lukež, Vesna Vesna Brekalo, Nives Čorak, and stopped the criminal prose- is a kind of susceptibility, a state Brekalo, and some of my former Danjela Grgić… cution. That is what happened to of mind, which is easier for me colleagues, whom I also taught. the badge I designed for the con- to paint than to describe. I was much more drawn to the On Prešeren Day, the Slo- vention held at Cankarjev dom company of theatre people and venian Day of Culture, Dr Er- on 28 February 1989. On the Your greatest passion was writers. This circle of friends is nest Petrič expressed his belief Star of David, it read: “Kosovo, for visual messages of a cul- much wider and was more im- that Prešeren – a free-thinking my country”. I had several en- tural nature, but you have also portant for my own develop- man with a European perspec- counters with the Slovenian se- designed for companies and ment. The fact is that I have nev- tive, far surpassing the Slove- cret police, but there were never produced several corporate de- er actually liked talking about nian provincial mentality, who any criminal charges pressed or signs. What is your opinion of graphic design. But with litera- did not crave money, was free- other consequences. I did not how art presents the Slovenian ture and theatre, it was quite the spirited, and possessed a broad do any of this in order to upset economy today? opposite. Socialising with direc- knowledge, vision and human- the public; these ideas always I have done only a few cor- tors, actors, stage managers, set ism – would not feel be at ease sprang from internal tensions porate designs – a few in Italy, designers and costume design- in contemporary society. and the general climate in so- one in Canada, two in Hungary, ers soon led to me designing for I think Dr Petrič hit the nail ciety. Nothing was ever under- and several smaller ones in Slo- the theatre. The same happened on the head with a single idea. taken without due reflection or venia. If you include publishing with the writers I mingled with. Who among thinking people consideration. I have never done houses in the economy, then Most of my friends are either feels good in the conflicted and these things just for the sake of there is the Wieser publishing poets, writers and playwrights. divided Slovenian society of effect. And I never disrupted the house in Austria and Sypress With them, there is never a dull today? We are divided ideo- brotherhood and unity of Yugo- Forlag in Norway. The only large moment. logically, spiritually, mentally, slavia’s nations. On the contrary, graphic system, which I under- regionally and as neighbours… I have always been aware of the took with Peter Skalar and Janez You have also devoted time Everything that Prešeren wrote climate of civil society; after all, Suhadolc, was the corporate to book design and you were in Zdravljica (A Toast) is natu- I belong to it myself. design for Ljubljanska banka, involved in the historical de- ral, patriotic and human. In way back in the 1970s. Design- velopment of books. What new 1846, before the publication of If posters and the theatre ing for culture attracted me. It’s things did you learn from this? the collection Poezije (Poems), serve as mirrors for society like this – I much prefer to de- When I became involved the Viennese assistant censor, and how it should be reformed, sign books than washing pow- in book design, and later with Franc Miklošič, in the censor-

14 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 15 RATINGS CONSUMPTION

Business Marko Šiška, photo: STA Slovenia’s rating downgraded Consumer confidence index falls Business Standard & Poor’s (S&P) has currency from AA- to A and cut in January 2012 downgraded the credit ratings the credit rating of short-term The consumer confidence -in latter was 7 percentage points of nine European countries, foreign exchange transactions dex recorded a decrease of six lower than for the previous including Slovenia. Slovenia’s by one notch from F1+ to F1. percentage points in January month. In January 2012, the credit rating was lowered from In Fitch’s view, the long-term 2012 from December 2011 ow- consumer confidence index ECONOMIC GROWTH MANAGEMENT AA- to A+ with the potential outlook for Slovenia required ing to consumers’ pessimistic fell by one percentage point for further cuts due to pro- a downgrade by two notches forecasts of household financ- compared with January 2011 or jected negative trends. Owing due to the eurozone’s impact Institute of Macroeconomic Analysis Managers see innovation as a way es for the next 12 months. The with the last year’s average. to its open economy, Slovenia on Slovenia and further dete- and Development reduces growth out of the crisis is more likely to be affected by rioration in Slovenia’s banking in its autumn forecast Some 300 members of the McKinsey & Company, a con- external shifts, and the nega- sector. In 2012 and 2013, S&P In view of the much deterio- Vasle, predicted GDP growth Managers’ Association of Slo- sulting firm, we are in a com- tive outlook for its trade part- may continue to cut Slovenia’s TOURISM AND LEISURE rated expectations for global of 2% in 2012 compared with venia gathered at a meeting pletely new era of global de- ners will continue to impede rating, unless the new govern- economic activities, the Insti- 1.5% for last year. According to in Ljubljana to discuss the re- velopment. The Director of the Slovenia’s growth, writes S&P. ment prepares and implements Alpe-Adria Tourism and Leisure Show opens tute of Macroeconomic Analy- the IMAD’s winter forecast of sponsibilities of managers in Institute for Macroeconomic Slovenia is one of the five eu- credible labour market and The biggest fair dedicated to the Spain, Tunisia, Morocco, Bos- sis and Development (IMAD) economic trends, which was companies and their commit- Analysis and Development, rozone countries whose rat- pension reforms which will promotion of tourism in the nia and Herzegovina, Serbia has forecast significantly re- presented to the Government ment to help Slovenia become Boštjan Vasle, believes that ings were also downgraded by provide growth at the level of Alps-Adriatic region was un- and Montenegro, which are not duced economic growth for today, GDP increased by 0.5% one of the 15 most developed developments in the markets Fitch. This credit rating agency the current GDP per capita or derway at Ljubljana Exhibition in our immediate vicinity, are Slovenia. Growth is expected to in 2011. This is one percentage EU member states by 2020. of our major trade partners downgraded Slovenia’s long- even higher. and Convention Centre from also represented. The honorary reach 0.2% this year and 2% in point less than projected in the To achieve this objective, the will be of great importance term debt in local and foreign 26 to 29 January. Two coun- patron of the fair is the Slove- 2013. In its Autumn Forecast, Institute’s forecast last Sep- mindset must change, and new for Slovenia’s economic de- tries from the region – Slovenia nian Ministry of the Economy, the IMAD, headed by Boštjan tember. values and innovation must be velopment, along with fiscal introduced in all areas. In the consolidation, the financing and Croatia – were presenting which also organised the Alpe- EU words of Peter Kraljič, a for- of banks and companies, and their tourism products at the Adria Meeting of Travel Profes- mer director and partner at competitiveness. fair along with Italy, Austria sionals, Brand Managers and ENTREPRENEURSHIP Fiscal compact agreed and Hungary as separate re- Media Representatives in Tour- The leaders of the EU member surplus”. The annual structural gions. Tourist destinations in ism. 100% Start:up – the biggest forum states reached an agreement deficit therefore should not on an intergovernmental fis- exceed 0.5% of GDP. At the EU In Ljubljana Technology Park, with funds and activities. The cal treaty to be signed by all summit in Brussels, the lead- the Start:up Slovenia competi- participants agreed that ev- EU countries except the Czech ers also adopted a statement on tion organised a forum called ery start-up needs a mentor Republic and the UK. Europe measures aimed at strength- “100% Start:up” where the with extensive personal ex- is stepping up its efforts and ening economic growth and entrepreneurs of the most suc- perience in entrepreneurship Slovenia should not lag be- increasing employment. The cessful start-ups in Slovenia and business success. Since hind, commented the Slovenian emphasis is placed on the fol- shared their interesting success experienced businessmen are Prime Minister, Borut Pahor, on lowing three immediate priori- stories and daring visions with well aware of how important the fact that the agreement was ties: stimulating employment the audience, as well as offered it is to pass knowledge onto sealed so quickly. The bottom – especially for young people, some helpful advice. The fo- the younger generations who line of the Treaty on Stability, completing the Single Mar- rum was attended by seasoned choose to embark on the dif- Coordination and Governance ket, and boosting the financing entrepreneurs, representatives ficult path of entrepreneurship, in the Economic and Monetary of the economy, in particular from innovation-driven com- they give free advice through Union is a golden or fiscal rule SMEs as the drivers of economic panies and investors who can their informal platform – the that general government bud- growth. support new entrepreneurs “Silicon Gardens”. gets must be “balanced or in

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Horizon 2014–2020 The Strategic Council for Tech- kets; key technological and nology at the Chamber of Com- specialised fields should be at merce and Industry of Slovenia the forefront and investments welcomed the European Com- in these fields increased; pro- mission’s new framework pro- grammes for improving the gramme for research and in- efficiency of investment in novation, Horizon 2014–2020. development should be linked It highlighted the most impor- together and supplemented. tant aspects of the Horizon: Furthermore, the Horizon networking should support all places special emphasis on in- stages in the innovation chain, novation. Maja Tomanič Vidovič, Director of Slovene Enterprise Fund Peter Kraljič, a former director and partner at McKinsey & Company ranging from research to mar-

16 Government Communication Office 17 BEFORE AND AFTER

DR BOŽO CERAR: There are certain events in Ministry of Foreign Affairs, photo: STA one’s life that stick out and, for “Seeing the dead and the wounded, I realised that very me, this was the fighting that took evening that Yugoslavia, even as a loose federation, had place between the Slovenian Ter- ritorial Defence and the Yugoslav ceased to exist. There was no way back.” Army just a few metres from noticed some members of the for International Cooperation. my house. I will never forget the Slovenian Territorial Defence. I Dragan, Vajgl and I were or- deathly silence that followed the IT WAS A PIONEERING TIME thought frantically about where dered by the Slovenian presi- surrender of the Yugoslav Army I could make myself useful. The dency to try to get to Belgrade troops. People could not believe decision was not difficult. Bar- by car that same morning, and we were fighting an army that, TH MEMORIES OF SLOVENIAN DIPLOMATS ON THE 20 ANNIVERSARY ricades had been set up in the establish contact with foreign not long ago, had been the peo- streets, but I managed to get to embassies on Slovenia’s behalf. ple’s army, our army – but now it OF SLOVENIA’S INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION Ljubljana on an overcrowded The situation worsened dur- was sowing death in our streets train coming from Kamnik. At ing the day and our mission and gardens. Seeing the dead and On my way home from the 7:30, I informed Minister Rupel was considered too dangerous. the wounded, I realised that very bridge, a Yugoslav Army heli- and the Republic Committee for As a result, our trip to Belgrade evening that Yugoslavia, even as copter flew low and audaciously International Cooperation of my was postponed. I remained at a loose federation, had ceased to over us. It made my blood boil There is, unfortunately, not enough space in this column to include all the memories and so we published only presence. Zvone Dragan, Ivo Va- the Republic Committee for In- exist. There was no way back. to see what was happening in fragments of the Slovenian diplomats’ memoirs, which are available in full, together with the memoirs of other jgl, Mitja Štrukelj, Andrej Logar, ternational Cooperation and The next day, Minister Rupel my country and, clearly, it was my other colleagues from Bel- tried to make myself as useful sent a letter to the Federal Secre- diplomats, on the webpage of the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: really happening. I decided at grade, and I gathered in the of- as possible: I phoned numerous tary for Foreign Affairs, Budimir www.mzz.gov.si/si/20_obletnica_mednarodnega_priznanja_republike_slovenije/spomini_slovenskih_diplomatov/ once to join our armed resis- fice of Secretary-General Matjaž foreign officials and journalists, Lončar, informing him that Slo- tance. In Trzin, a settlement not Kovačič. That morning, we be- and prepared information on the venia had withdrawn its people far away from the blocked Yu- came officially involved in the situation in Slovenia for the rest from the Federal Secretariat for goslav armoured motorcade, I work of the Republic Committee of the world. Foreign Affairs.

DR MILAN JAZBEC: was not clearly defined. While in Ljubljana, I discussed the “International recognition brought great joy, DR BORIS FRLEC: tact with our migrants. I often issue of my legal status with had to travel to different parts of relief and honour.” Matjaž Jančar, Head of the De- “We worked enthusiastically and with drive. Germany and even to Frankfurt, partment for Neighbouring It was a pioneering time.” 135 kilometres away, to welcome was safe to return. The consul- grade and took the documents Countries. We had an embassy or bid farewell to Slovenian poli- ate staff accepted that fact, for it and the archives somewhere; in Vienna and no consular post possible to predict that East and cal for diplomatic activities. The ticians. was clear that Belgrade had for- but I managed to destroy some in Klagenfurt. After discussions West Germany would merge house in Niederbachem was not In mid-April, we received saken us, politically speaking. of the documents. The consul- with the German Vice-Consul to become one. “I knew you’d ideal in many ways, but the most the paintings lent to us by the The atmosphere was still tense, ate general building and the in Klagenfurt and others, the come back!” said Minister Gen- burning issue was that the own- Ljubljana City Art Gallery. Its but I was under the impression entire premises, including the Slovenian government opened scher, grinning characteristical- er’s apartment was in the same head, my close acquaintance, that the worst was now over. large garden and courtyard a consulate general headed by ly. I was received with affinity, house. We purchased the office Aleksander Bassin, selected In early December we received were closed and sealed off. The Honorary Consul Karel Smolle. my colleagues in the diplomatic equipment and gradually estab- a number of works of mod- an encoded message that the keys were given to municipal He was a Carinthian Slovenian Yugoslav government had ad- authorities, which took over the and one of the first autho- corps helped me to establish a lished an operational embassy. ern Slovenian art and provided October witnessed the end opted a decision to close several maintenance and protection of rised Slovenian representatives diplomatic mission, find the fa- Ljubljana started to send fur- physical assistance in setting up of the three-month morato- cilities for the Embassy and the niture for the residence, which the exhibition at the Embassy. embassies in distant countries the building. The Yugoslav Con- abroad by the appointment of … In late January, after ea- rium. It became clear that in- residence, and furnish them – was partly equipped with fur- We were pleased it would en- and some consulates, includ- sul General from Graz, who at- the DEMOS government. As gerly awaiting the appointment, dependence was an inevitable all whilst maintaining normal niture that had been purchased liven the reception celebrating ing the one in Klagenfurt. Kla- tended the closing, invited me the Vice-Consul and the only I indeed returned to Bonn as an process, one that would soon diplomatic activity. locally. We did most of the the opening. Ambitiously, but in genfurt probably found its way to join his service, saying he member of staff, I was in charge Ambassador of the Republic of receive international recogni- My wife, Darja, and I moved physical work ourselves and my hindsight rather tactlessly, we onto the list because it was Yu- would make the necessary ar- of everything. Following the ap- Slovenia, a country recognised tion. Those Slovenian diplomats into Dahl Hotel. A notepad and a craftsmanship came in handy. announced the opening for 28 goslav property and they feared rangements in Belgrade. I said pointment of the Consul Gen- who were still working in Yu- by the EU on 15 January. Upon pencil were all the equipment I We worked enthusiastically and April. Minister Rupel, who was that Slovenia would occupy the I would think about it; I had to eral, I was promoted to Consul. goslav diplomatic missions and the presentation of my cre- had back then. Zupanc had al- with drive. It was a pioneering travelling regularly at that time, premises after Slovenia’s ex- buy some time. In agreement with the Ministry, dentials, President Richard von ready put his skills to good use time. All the while, the work of was rather disappointed by this, consular posts started returning pected recognition. This possi- … International recogni- I began searching for premises Weizsäcker said to me that this in Mehlem, Bad Godesberg, near the Embassy had to be carried because he had wanted to at- home to join the Slovenian dip- bility was actually considered at tion brought great joy, relief for our future consulate general. was the first time in his career Bonn. He had found the prem- out in parallel. As well as per- tend the reception. However, lomatic service. During his an- the time. Nevertheless, we de- and honour. Congratulations I found rooms on the second that he had received credentials ises for the Embassy along the manent contact with German it was too late to postpone the nual leave, the Consul General cided to act in accordance with came from all sides, and the floor of the building at Bahn- from the same person for two Rhine; we soon found a house, politicians and colleagues in the date. On that day, the Slovenian went to the United States to visit international law; as an emerg- tune changed, if I may say so. hofstrasse 22A in the city cen- different countries. I replied and my wife and I moved in on diplomatic corps, I appeared in flag fluttered in front of the -Em his daughter. Irena Zdovc re- ing country, we had to show I returned to work full-time: tre. We officially moved there in that we lived in a time of un- 26 February because staying in the media on many occasions, bassy, the reception was a suc- turned to Ljubljana, while I was recognition of and respect for I made appearances as a rep- June, before Statehood Day. We usual historic trials. Just years the hotel room had become in- held lectures at various associa- cess and the work in the new instructed to stay in Klagenfurt the rule of law. By the end of the resentative of a newly formed were enthusiastic, very busy earlier, it would have been im- sufferable and most impracti- tions and maintained close con- facilities commenced. for as long as possible or until it month, a team came from Bel- country, although my status and full of energy…

18 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 19 Photo: STA Photo: Iztok Dimc

Mitja Čander, programme director of the ECC Bernarda Gradišnik, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to Portugal Maribor 2012 has the potential to emerge The Guimarães ECC programme focuses on four as a recognizable European Capital of Culture main topics – the city, the community, thought and art

Years ago, Maribor in Slovenia and Gui- In this context, Portugal should not and these events will culminate in a friend- marães in Portugal had practically only only represent a challenge, but also an op- ly match between the football clubs from one thing in common: our former national portunity for the Slovenian Tourist Board, the two cities. The Guimarães 2012 Founda- team player, Zlatko Zahovič, began his Por- the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of tion has even appointed Zlatko Zahovič its The idea of the European Capital of The concept of a city has been changing dialogue between the city and the arts; the tuguese football career in Guimarães, a ca- Slovenia, and other Slovenian institutions. ambassador for their ECC! Culture (ECC) has undergone three different throughout European history, but we have city’s identity is expanding, as well as the conceptual outlines in its nigh-on three always connected it to the spiritual and not search for new forms of creative existence reer that would peak at Benfica and Porto. The Slovenian Embassy in Lisbon is mak- I visited Guimarães, a city in northern decades of existence and development. just the pragmatic dimension of human through different events. The Urban Today, the two cities are now linked by ing every effort to promote our country Portugal, twice and I was captivated by Melina Mercouri, after whom the prize is existence. Today, the majority of European Creases operate on the fringes of society – their selection as European Capitals of Cul- and increase its visibility, and to establish it on both occasions. It is one of the most still named, and the direct financial help cities face the danger of becoming non- through research by activists on social and ture for 2012. As the Slovenian Ambassa- a “network” of local acquaintances and important Portuguese historical cities, the of the project by the European Union, localities – places bereft of identity. The ecological topics, they not only highlight dor to Portugal, I am delighted by this fact, stakeholders which could provide a link “birthplace of the Portuguese nation”, a originally promoted the idea of a Europe ECC project presents an opportunity to the importance of coexistence, but they because their simultaneous and, in many between supply and demand. Further con- city where Afonso I (Dom Afonso Hen- that is inextricably linked to culture. The restore and maintain this shared identity. also try to emphasize the ways towards a ways, intertwined cultural presentations tributions to the promotion of Slovenian riques, 1109–1185), the first ruler of Por- ECC was therefore initially a celebration of These endeavours are crucial, as only the creative and tolerant society by providing have undoubtedly had a positive influence culture and language are being made by tugal, founded the kingdom. Distinguished European optimism, which was markedly revitalisation of the city as an organism effective practical examples. Living Touch on improving Maribor’s visibility in Eu- the Slovenian lectureship at the Faculty by its tenth-century castle, the city is a enhanced by the fall of the Berlin Wall of diverse functions can bring economic is a multimedia venue for reflection, from rope and the rest of the world, as well as of Arts in Lisbon. Allow me now to return UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Gui- on the one hand, and by cutting-edge art growth. In boom times, we relied on the the events of the ECC through the city and Slovenia’s visibility in Portugal. Here, our once again to the sphere of culture. marães is the centre of the country’s textile on the other. Even after the year 2000, benefits derived from tourism and other the region to the wider European context. country is still unintentionally confused, Our Embassy and the aforementioned industry and also the seat of the local uni- the basic message remains the same: service industries; we were blithe with Besides the four programme sets, we also not only with Slovakia, but even more of- Slovenian lectureship, which cooperates versity, which is an important research and European spiritual heritage is still extremely expected jobs, new investments, and the decided on three programme entities we ten with faraway Estonia (the reason sim- with our diplomatic mission, invited the technology centre. important, especially in order to encourage like. Even today, these are all very important want to take a special role in the structure of ply being the visual similarity between the two representatives from the two capitals The Guimarães ECC programme focus- a more tolerant society. The importance aspects of the ECC. However, we should be the ECC. Among the international activities names of Estonia and Eslovénia, which is of culture to attend the Prešeren Day con- es on four main topics – the city, the com- of cutting-edge art as the essence of the aware that, in order to carry out all these underway, this mainly includes cultural how Slovenia is spelled by the Portuguese). cert celebration on 8 February in Lisbon, munity, thought and art. Like Maribor, it European spirit is also not diminished. endeavours, we must first take care of the embassies, which will focus on different But it is not just visibility that makes and to present the relevant programmes wishes to attract as many of its inhabitants Despite all this, the ECC project has spiritual revival of the city and not the cultures in association with several a difference. The reciprocity between the and, in particular, joint projects. as possible to participate in the design and gained additional dimensions in the new other way around. A city is representative European and non-European countries. two countries’ cultural initiatives and These are primarily designed for young performance of cultural events, or to at- millennium. Creativity in the broader sense of its society – a metaphor for the broader The University of Maribor also has a special programmes has been designed so as to people. Young people from Slovenia will tend them. A comprehensive programme of the word has now come to the fore, and situation. Maribor is experiencing a crisis importance for the city, the region and provide an opportunity to strike up new visit Portugal and their Portuguese peers includes events covering music, film, pho- the participation of the Capital of Culture’s of intense proportions; for the second the ECC, and represents its significant contacts and partnerships. However, pro- will visit our country. While learning about tography, fine art, architecture, literature, inhabitants in the ECC’s programmes is time in twenty years its economy is on development potential. We also would like moting culture can also represent a plat- the countries’ cultures, languages and cus- theatre, dance and street art. The cultural becoming increasingly important. The its knees, social pressures are increasing, to pay special attention to volunteering and form for finding business opportunities toms, they will join forces and take part activities, which will be taking place un- project is thus morphing from being and people with vision are scarce. Maribor people with special needs. The ECC must and promoting our economy. Moreover, in various projects. These activities will be til the end of this year, were launched on predominantly festive to something more is a city with an extremely high level of be an opportunity for everyone. the broader social and economic aspects supplemented by several workshops. One 21 January with the official opening event engaged, built around sustainable annual emigration in European terms. This city Maribor 2012 has the potential to are also becoming increasingly important of the projects is entitled Letters from the entitled The Birth of the Nation – a homage events. Nowadays, the centres of attention on the Drava River is accustomed to crises emerge as a recognizable European Capital within the framework of the ECC. Por- World and is intended to connect young to the city. This grand multi-media spec- are not merely European metropolises with and changes to its identity; it has always of Culture. It has the opportunity to become tugal is not just an EU member state, but people through the medium of creative tacle was attended by over 60,000 people, all their infrastructure and glamour, but been confronted with ethnic, cultural and a new model to follow in these times of also, historically, one of the European win- writing. Awards will be handed out for the including many tourists. Organisers expect instead smaller cities are becoming the key social struggles. The ECC project can get crisis, even though we have drawn on the dows to the world. Indeed, it has skilfully ten best letters, and their authors will get that the events will attract approximately locations – industrial locations that need the blood running through the city’s veins experience gained from other European transformed the heritage of its colonial the opportunity to acquaint themselves 1.5 million visitors, which will certainly fresh impetus to help build new identities. once again. It can regain its self-esteem, capitals of culture, especially those just past into an economic stepping stone: its with the countries’ attractions as they travel give renewed impetus to the Portuguese This period of social and financial crisis but also a new identity in the eyes of before Maribor. Enforcing high standards almost personal economic relations with through them. Two anthologies of the work economy. (However, as a fan of all things probably represents a third phase in the others. and ambitions, as well as addressing the Brazil, Angola, Mozambique and other fast of twentieth-century Slovenian and Portu- Maribor, please allow me to add that, at development of the project, a period that The ECC Maribor 2012 programme whole society through creativity. The growing lusophone (Portuguese-speak- guese poets will also be published in both least thus far, ECC Maribor has been attract- features all the key parameters of its former includes 412 projects and many more other web of ECC cities – besides Maribor as ing) countries offer potential opportuni- languages. But, because football plays a spe- ing even greater interest from tourists, with phase even more dramatically. The ECC’s events and processes. It focuses on four the holder, also include Ptuj, Novo Mesto, ties to other EU member states which to- cial role in the social life of the inhabitants this fact confirmed by the well-known Tri- attempt to revive the social environment programme pillars. Terminal 12 provides Slovenj Gradec, Murska Sobota and Velenje day – when exporting within the EU only of Maribor and Guimarães, some events will pAdvisor travel services website.) In short, through creativity is an opportunity in the cutting-edge art, with a special emphasis – by consolidating a number of common means transferring the deficit burden to be dedicated to this. Football matches will this is an opportunity which is an award in midst of a state of general numbness and on new approaches, but also local and networking projects, we can set the neighbour’s doorstep – are in search of be played between both countries’ teams itself. May it therefore bring both cities as mistrust. creativity. The Keys to the City establishes a something in motion. new trading routes to the Third World. of artists – the co-creators of the projects – much pleasure as possible.

20 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 21 art&culture

Vesna Žarkovič, photo: STA Prešeren awards 2012 PREŠEREN FUND AWARD WINNERS

Andrej E. Skubic - writer Franc Kosem - trumpeter

The award ceremony of the highest national awards in the field symbolic “trash”. His stage direction consists of well-considered of culture – the Prešeren Award and the Prešeren Fund Award – and, at all times, intimately and almost unnoticeably executed col- took place on the eve of the Slovene cultural holiday. This year’s lective theatrical acts in which the spectator occupies the key posi- recipients of the Prešeren Award are the writer Jože Snoj and the tion next to the actor. designer Matjaž Vipotnik, who are introduced in more detail in The actor and singer-songwriter Iztok Mlakar received the our interview. The winners of the Prešeren Fund Award are: Franc Prešeren Fund Award for his acting creations and interpretation of Kosem – trumpeter, Stojan Kuret – conductor, Ivica Buljan – stage self-authored projects. Iztok Mlakar is a master of bringing char- director, Iztok Mlakar – actor and singer-songwriter, Andrej E. acter actor roles from classical dramatic literature to life as well as Skubic – writer, and Maruša Zorec – architect. from the modern Slovenian and world drama. He is also known by his audience for his narrative songs and always new socially- The trumpeter Franc Kosem received the Prešeren Fund Award engaged chansons performed at Soirées with Iztok Mlakar. Ac- for his work in the field of music over the past two years. Kosem’s cording to Mojca Kreft, Iztok Mlakar is “a language perfectionist, Ivica Buljan - stage director Stojan Kuret - conductor trumpet playing attracts audiences both young and old. “His play- an extraordinary connoisseur and interpreter of the Slovene lan- ing is distinguished by a beautiful tone, a marvellous technique and guage and its dialectical peculiarities. He is a noble Slovene the- an expression that satisfy even the most demanding of listeners. atre actor and singer, an artist who understands his fundamental In his interpretation, he demonstrates the qualities of a promising acting mission as being a minstrel’s majestic address to his audi- young musician with a developed sense of aesthetics, combined ence.” with a specific technical skill,” wrote Alojz Ajdič in his statement The Prešeren Fund Board was also impressed by Koliko si moja? of reasons for the award. (How Much do You Love Me?), the fifth novel by Andrej E. Skubic. The conductor Stojan Kuret received the Prešeren Fund Award In this novel, Andrej E. Skubic describes a love relationship and the for his achievements as a choral music conductor over the past two man’s attitude to property. “The writer gives a persuasive account years. “Kuret’s work is characterised by a masterful performance of the futility of insisting upon merely one’s own truth, the uncer- in achieving a colourful choral resonance and rich musical creativ- tainty of possessing something or someone, and the importance of ity, which enables him to confidently dominate the recently com- accepting one’s partner for a successful relationship. In the alterna- posed baroque and modern music of his contemporaries,” wrote tive between “having and being”, “having” shows to be an illusion, Marko Vatovec, adding that Kuret’s choral creations are classified and “being” (loving) to bring a feeling of harmony,” wrote Vlado as achievements which, on the one hand, set modern trends and, Motnikar in his statement of reasons for the award. on the other hand, will go down in the history of Slovene musical One of this year’s prize winners is also the architect, Maruša creativity and interpretation. Zorec, who is the author and manager of the project of Rebuilding Maruša Zorec - architect The stage director Ivica Buljan won the award for directing the and Restoration of Ormož Castle Outbuildings. The principal mes- plays Macbeth after Shakespeare, Sallinger, The Little Mermaid, Ma sage of this project is that “we are inseparably connected to the his- and Al, The Vampire, The Hunting Scenes from Lower Bavaria, The tory of our living environment”, which are the words written in the Cyclops, Werther, and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. As Blaž Lukan wrote statement of reasons for the award. Maruša Zorec carried out this in his statement of reasons for the award, Buljan’s theatre looks like project in collaboration with the architect, Maša Živec, and the ar- a “theatre-cycle” due to the volume and exceptional character of chitecture graduation candidate, Žiga Ravnikar. According to Maja his stage director’s work over the past two years: on the one hand, Tasič, the prize-winning architect undoubtedly ranks among Slo- it is carried across the scenes like a precisely differentiated perfor- venia’s top architects. Apart from her high-level modern religious Iztok Mlakar - actor, singer, songwriter mance wave by a clearly defined emotional and energetic stream, and socially relevant architectural creations, she is particularly dis- and on the other hand, it is like a uniform stage production magma tinguished by the excellent and responsible way in which she has that removes unnecessary stage illustrations and psychological and carried out renovation projects of historical buildings in Slovenia.

22 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 23 art&culture

Albert Kos, photo: STA Black masks THE OPENING OF THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2012 BEGINS IN MARIBOR WITH THE STAGING OF A LARGE-SCALE OPERA

The premiere of the opera, Black Masks, written by the Slovenian of which he was admitted to a mental hospital shortly after staging composer, Marij Kogoj, was one of the opening sequences in an ex- Black Masks, where he remained until his death in 1956. One critic tensive programme of cultural events for this year’s European Capital even questions whether the composer, by writing the opera, was of Culture, which took place in Maribor in mid-January. A large-scale running away from his own feelings about going insane, although opera project is a joint production between the Ljubljana and Maribor the greatest mystery of his oeuvre remains how he could describe his Opera and Ballet National Theatres and a co-production with the or- madness while still compos mentis. ganisers of the European Capital of Culture. The selection of the Kogoj opera, classified as one of the highlights CREATORS STAGING THE KOGOJ OPERA IN MARIBOR Jože Osterman, photo: Peter Uhan of Slovenian musical creativity and among the most original Slove- nian opera works, was no coincidence. Ever since it was composed, Yet, the Slovenian conductor, Uroš Lajovic, and the musical di- Black Masks has represented a major challenge to all those who rector of the current staging, who has been performing in Vienna The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui decide to stage it. This is a piece of work with a reputation of being for a number of years, rejects the hypothesis that Kogoj would have a heavy and obscure opera with its musical language, which com- been able to compose such a demanding and complex music master- bines an unusual mixture of late-Romanticism and atonal musical piece in a state of unsound mind. The revision of Kogoj’s 800 pages AN ACHIEVEMENT WORTHY OF THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE elements; Kogoj’s musical expressionism was largely influenced by of sheet music took Lajovic as long as eight years in order to thor- Franz Schreker and Arnold Schönberg, under whom Kogoj studied oughly prepare himself as the musical director and conductor for the Only a few days after the premiere of Marij Kogoj’s opera, Black tor of this performance, Eduard Miller, went for a more universal composition during the First World War. performance in Maribor. The stage director was Janez Burger, thus far Masks – the opening event of the European Capital of Culture in concept where dictatorship and the demise of mankind are rooted mainly known as a film director, while other members of the group Maribor on 13 January, and one of its highlights – the Slovenian in the characteristics of contemporary society: egotism, greed and MUSICAL AND DRAMATURGIC GENESIS OF BLACK MASKS of authors worth mentioning are the costume designer, Alan Hran- theatre audience was able to enjoy The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, the ensuing capitalism. The play matches the spirit of the current itelj, the artist group, Numen, from Zagreb who also designed the set, a lesser known play by Bertolt Brecht. Next to the co-production crisis when several political options unscrupulously flirt with au- The composer, Marij Kogoj, born in Trieste in 1892, composed the lighting designer, Pascal Mérat, and the stage movement designer of Tomaž Pandur’s War and Peace, staged for the first time by the thoritarian, undemocratic and even violent models of power that Black Masks on the basis of a story written by the Russian writer, Edward Clug. Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb last autumn, Brecht’s master- would have been unthought of not so long ago. The European Cap- Leonid Andreyev, using the dramatic text or its Slovenian translation The interpreter of the main character of Duke Lorenzo is the bari- piece is one of the major events in Maribor. The Resistible Rise of ital of Culture has staged a daring play – a mirror for Europe, its as a libretto. Black Masks was penned between 1924 and 1927 and tone Jože Vidic who, after the premiere, was admired for his com- Arturo Ui premiered in Cankarjev dom’s Gallus Hall in Ljubljana. selfish capital and powerless democracy. The democratic world’s premiered two years later in the Ljubljana opera theatre. Even then, mendable music perfection and psychological depth when displaying A magnificent performance, by Slovenian standards at least, has frequent deviations observed today, even in the European Union music connoisseurs and the more culturally sensitive public consid- the protagonist’s mental disorder, his delusions and paranoia. Several received very good reviews and Maribor can be justly proud of it. countries which hypocritically advocate democracy as an axiom ered it the highlight of musical expressionism, with some comparing other major roles are taken in alternation with two singers, while the In the mannerism of Brecht’s theatre, The Resistible Rise of Ar- of their social development, reveal a big lie that has crept into the it to the more expressionist operas of Alban Berg – Lulu and Wozzeck. total number of solo roles performed by the singers of Ljubljana and turo Ui is an almost didactic play about the rise of an overly ambi- heart of the old continent. After the Second World War, Black Masks, as Kogoj’s sole opera, was Maribor opera ensembles amounts to as many as twenty-seven. tious man – albeit an average character or even a problematic and The director and his team have used some excellent theatrical staged only twice and this year’s staging in Maribor will be the fourth. With the premiere and a few re-runs in Maribor, the performance emotionally deprived man, judging from his human and mental techniques in order to make this performance probably one of the The theme of Kogoj’s opera is a story about the increasingly men- of Black Masks, conducted by Uroš Lajovic and directed by Janez dimensions – to power or the leadership of a big community or greatest achievements in Slovenian theatre in recent years. Critics tally traumatised character, Duke Lorenzo di Spadaro, who organises Burger, has just started its stage life. Its second premiere will be held state. His ascendance does not stem from his personal qualifica- are agreed on two outstanding features: Jernej Šugman’s brilliant a masquerade ball in his grand castle, where uninvited black masks in Cankarjev Dom’s Gallus Hall in Ljubljana on 2 March this year, and tions of being, at first, an insignificant local gangster who, through portrayal of Arturo Ui; and the music by Boštjan Gombač who ac- appear which are attracted to the light. In his encounters with his four re-runs will follow from 3 to 6 March. Next year, Black Masks his deeds, rapidly evolves into a dangerous institution beyond our companies and comments on the proceedings on stage with the masked guests, Lorenzo realises his dark past – that he is not a de- is expected to be staged at the Zagreb biennale and the ceremony control, but is facilitated mainly by deformed people and their en- precision of a virtuoso. His music, along with the text, builds a scendant of the late Duke di Spadaro, but instead the son of a horse marking Croatia’s accession to the EU. vironment. The background of this play is patently obvious: Brecht new authentic narrative synthesis – the superb quality of Brecht’s stable-boy and the Duchess. It all ends with Lorenzo’s insanity and wrote it in the panic of flight from Hitler’s advancing troops in 1941 work. Slovenians who, in spite of the disputes surrounding the his death, and the fire destroying his castle, which also serves as a as he waited in Finland for a visa to the United States. The charac- capital of culture, see this opportunity as a serious challenge for metaphor for his mental disintegration. In the story of Lorenzo, we By writing this opera, the composer may well have been running ters clearing the way for Ui’s rise through bribery and the commis- the entire Slovenian nation were, through this successful perfor- can identify a number of distinct autobiographical elements from his away from his feelings about going insane, although the greatest mys- sion of hideous criminal acts are strongly reminiscent of Goebbels, mance, filled with satisfaction and the hope of a happy ending for youth as an orphan, after his father’s death and his abandonment by tery of his oeuvre remains how he could describe his madness whilst Göring, Himmler and the other Nazis whose careers ended either Maribor as the current European Capital of Culture. his mother, until his suspicion about his mental illness, as a result sound of mind (music critic, Marijan Zlobec). in bombed-out Berlin or at the Nuremberg trials, but the direc-

24 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 25 art&culture

Gabi Matkovič, photo: Konstantyn G. Hana Souček Morača, photo: archive of the Prešeren Theatre Kranj ‘Slovenia: Masters and Architecture 42nd tribute to Slovenian Drama

One of the oldest Slovenian theatre festivals, Week of Slove- Theatre), Scandal in the Valley of St Florian (Mladinsko Theatre), of the 20th Century’ nian Drama, will take place in the second half of March in Kranj. He who fares alone through the world till evening (Slovenian Na- For the forty-second time, this annual national festival will pres- tional Theatre Nova Gorica), Feast (Imaginarni Institute), Flowers OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION ent an overview of theatre production based on Slovenian texts. in autumn (Margareta Schwarzwald Institute) and Who is next? This Slovenian drama festival has been running since 1970. There (Maska Institute). The Slovenian Embassy, together with Slovenian Consul Maya heritage, in which Slovenia, as a small country, takes great pride. will be a change in the festival this year; from now on, it will al- The Week of Slovenian Drama is a festival primarily dedicated Martinenko, opened the exhibition entitled ‘Slovenia: Masters and It is a starting point enticing historians and architects to explore a ways open on 27 March – World Theatre Day. to drama writing, its attention is focused on dramatic texts. The Architecture of the 20th Century’. The exhibition, curated by Pro- new architectural culture. A decade ago, a competition programme was introduced and Grum Award for the best new play promotes dramatic writing. It is fessor Luka Skansi, is displayed at the House of Metropolitan, the The exhibition is divided into three parts according to histori- an award, named after playwright Rudi Šeligo, has since been de- the only award of its kind in Slovenia; this year, its recipient will be National Reserve ‘Sophia of Kyiv’, and will be on view from 9 to 29 cal and political circumstance that marked Slovenia in the 20th livered for the best performance. This year, a record number of selected by a jury consisting of the stage managers, Diana Koloini, February 2012. century: the first part thus covers the Interbellum – the period be- theatre producers responded to the call for participation, and en- Martina Mrhar and Tomaž Toporišič; the actress, Vesna Pernarčič; At the opening ceremony, Nataša Prah, Chargé d’Affairs at the tween 1918 and 1940 when Slovenia was part of the Kingdom of tered as many as 46 theatre plays which premiered in 2011. The and the director, Alen Jelen. The festival audience decides on the Slovenian Embassy, stressed that Slovenian architecture could Yugoslavia; the second part is dedicated to the socialist Yugoslavia festival programme consists of performances of varying genres se- Audience Award; this year, a new award for the best young play- leave a very special and indelible mark in the international arena and illustrates the period from 1945 to 1991; the third part is an lected by the theatre critic, Amelia Kraigher, who sees the increase wright will be conferred. and thus draw attention to the potential of new ‘margina’ cultures overview of the events following Slovenia’s independence tracing in the number of entries as an encouraging indicator of the high Along with the competition and accompanying programme, that are finally stepping out of their local limits. She expressed the period from 1991 to 2008. regard enjoyed by the festival among Slovenian theatre people and the festival will also feature workshops and round-table confer- hope that the exhibition will bring the visitors closer to Slovenian The first part features Slovenia’s master architects, namely Jože proof that most artists would like to participate in it. More than ences involving international participants. architecture and that they will enjoy it. On this occasion, she also Plečnik, Maks Fabiani and Edvard Ravnikar, who all had success- half of the competition entrants are about Slovenian history; the For some years now, the festival has ventured beyond Slove- congratulated all Slovenians on Slovenian Cultural Day. ful and prolific professional lives and left a lasting imprint on ar- selection also features four plays based on Slovenian poetry or bi- nia’s borders by hosting international theatres staging Slovenian chitecture outside Slovenia. ographies of Slovenian poets. plays. As emphasized by Prešeren Theatre, these will contribute ABOUT THE EXHIBITION The second part is dedicated to the architects of the 1960s and The international expert jury of the 42nd Week of Slovenian towards the successful promotion of Slovenian plays abroad and 1970s, who contributed to our rich and diverse architecture draw- Drama comprises the dramatist, Tanja Ažman; the publicist, Tanja also provide opportunities for bigger international projects pro- The exhibition features some eighty works of architecture that ing on the motives of their predecessors. Leseničar Pučko; and the Croatian critic, Igor Ružič; they will be moted by the European Union. were carefully selected through the prism of history – which was Featuring contemporary architecture, the third and final part invited to select the best out of the eight competing performanc- The Week of Slovenian Drama aspires to cooperate with simi- demanding and difficult at times – in order to illustrate as best as presents the generation of architects who made their names only es. The plays up for the Šeligo Award are the following: Life®anti lar festivals promoting the creation and staging of national drama possible the complexity, abundance and array of the Slovenian ar- recently due to the 1980s economic crisis. The result is a rich and (Glej Theatre, Slovenian National Theatre Nova Gorica), Revela- works. It also presents theatre masterpieces, which often repre- chitecture of the 20th century. diverse contemporary architectural culture that can hardly fit into tions (The Ljubljana City Theatre), a one-time-only theatre per- sent the latest in theatrical thought, and the stagings of Slovenian The aim is not to trace the history of our twentieth-century any mould of style. formance The self Ljubljana could be named after (Ljubljana’s Mini drama classics. architecture, but to show a piece of the extremely rich building

26 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 27 DEVELOPMENT, NEW INVESTMENT, BUSI- As was the case this year, next year capacities. This involves strategic invest- NESS EXPANSION, DIVIDENDS will also be investment-driven. The Rus- ments, which will continue in 2012 and OUR EXCELLENCE sian Federation, where one plant is al- for which substantial resources will be al- The changes in the business environ- ready in place, will get a new produc- located; the planned investment value for ment have also affected the pharmaceu- tion-distribution centre worth EUR 135 2012 amounts to EUR 200 million. Vesna Žarkovič, photo: Krka archives tical industry. Their impact is reflected in million – construction is envisaged to be What is the profit sharing strategy? It the limited resources available, namely completed in 2013, which will consoli- is the stable growth of dividends with the extended payment deadlines, and even date Krka’s status as an important local investments required to further enhance more so in the downward pressure on producer on the Russian market, which business operations, in accordance with drug prices. This presents a challenge for currently generates 18% of the company’s the business strategy adopted. the industry, which according to them is total sales. The preparatory works under- Company sales have increased the Krka ranks among the under control. Given the current trends, way for the construction of another pro- most in the countries of Western Europe the generic pharmaceutical industry will duction facility at the company’s Novo (23.6% share); the sales growth recorded continue to grow; as a result, they are mesto headquarters began in autumn; the in South-East Europe (13.6% share) was optimistic, their work is carried out even new plant, Notol 2, will produce solid oral 6%, in Eastern Europe 8% and in the larg- world’s best companies more efficiently, and they continue to -in dosage forms and have a target capacity est Russian market 2%, achieving a 26.5% vest in development, and sales and mar- of 4.5 billion end products per annum. sales share. keting activities. The ongoing investment in the Krka sub- LAST YEAR, KRKA GROUP SALES WERE WORTH EUR 1.076 BILLION In 2012, Krka Group is planning a 6% sidiary, Farma GRS, established together EXPECTATIONS FROM THE STATE OR THE growth in sales, amounting to EUR 1,134 with its partners in a project strengthen- NEW GOVERNMENT: A STIMULATING BUSI- AND THE COMPANY EXPECTS TO REPORT SIMILAR GROWTH THIS YEAR. million. It will continue to focus its at- ing the pharmaceutical industry, is worth NESS ENVIRONMENT tention on the European and Central EUR 45 million. Furthermore, the con- Asian markets, with more than 90% of sents required for the construction of an “We anticipate a stimulating business its sales coming from outside Slovenia. In API production plant, Sinteza 1, at a loca- environment, without administrative bar- 2012, the company expects to increase its tion in Krško have already been acquired. riers, which would definitely contribute headcount, both in Slovenia and abroad, The company also plans to invest in some to economic growth. We expect the new by 5%. small projects to increase its production government to operate within a realistic

28 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 29 budgetary framework, and, in particular, already in full swing, is worth EUR 135 Krka is familiar with this market and its COMPARISON WITH LEK Krka’s share price has been relatively period, there will be considerable pres- to simplify the administrative procedures million and includes the construction of customers are familiar with Krka and its (NOW PART OF SANDOZ) low recently and Krka certainly is an at- sure on our EBITDA margin, but each relating to, for example, environmental a logistics centre and a new solid dosage wide range of products, which are mod- tractive takeover target. Are there any year we plan for a healthy increase in and spatial issues, and to accelerate the forms production plant. The flexible and ern, effective and safe. Owing to its long- Comparative table, taken from TOP fears of a hostile takeover? sales and below the line profit. Since the acquisition of relevant documentation. modular construction of its production term and successful business operations, 101: the largest business groups in 2010 Jože Colarič: For the last seven years, situation can change yearly, monthly, We also expect the government to intro- facilities will progress in several phases, Krka enjoys a considerable reputation. (Finance, 7 October 2011): I have been saying that Krka is one of weekly, daily or even hourly, this strat- duce the reforms and activities necessary in accordance with the requirements im- Its efficient marketing and sales network In EUR million the most desirable brides in the generic egy is not a fixed commitment; we are to increase the competitiveness of the posed by the market. The plant’s capacity, stretches from Vladivostok to Kaliningrad. Krka Group Lek Group pharmaceutical business, but it is also known for being quick and flexible. By Slovenian economy, and to improve key consolidating Krka’s status as a domestic The existing Krka-Rus plant produces Sales 1,010.0 701.1 true that there are almost no hostile take- being responsive, we will further in- areas of development in Slovenia in gen- pharmaceutical producer, will be 1.8 bil- thirty percent of the products sold by the overs in our industry. On the other hand, crease our sales and penetrate new mar- EBITDA 293.2 71.7 eral,” said Jože Colarič, the President of lion tablets and capsules per year. The Krka Group to Russia. The new invest- we need to bear in mind that the state kets in the medium-term, and, conse- the Management Board and Chief Execu- project is currently in the construction ment in the Krka Rus 2 plant will substan- Net profit 170.9 67.0 owns over 27% of Krka, which is a very quently, provide for an appropriate result tive of Krka d.d. phase (e.g. the erection of steel structures tially increase production capacities. This Capital 1,053.3 713.4 important detail relating to takeovers or or net profit. It is difficult to predict how and the installation of the façade). Pro- decision was taken because of the devel- Funds 1,488.2 907.2 the so-called “poison pill”. Admittedly, it much today, but we have always met our THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE FACILITY IN duction is planned to be underway in the opment dynamics and continued growth Employees 8328 2472 is true that state owners are threatened targets in the past. MOSCOW – KRKA’S LARGEST INVESTMENT new plant by 2013 and will provide jobs to in the Russian pharmaceutical market, (demand) by the withdrawal of voting rights, as a Krka started out with nine employ- THUS FAR over 100 people. and because of the strategic direction of result of which we pay particular care of ees in 1954, but now employs a thousand Russia is one of the BRIC economies, the Russian government, which puts the “In Krka, we are neither ashamed of our methods of operation. Our strategy times that number. The total number of Krka’s largest investment abroad is the an emerging market group which is ex- pharmaceutical industry among its devel- our below the line results, nor do we try to clearly states that Krka must maintain its employees, including those who work ongoing construction of a modern pro- pected to continue its economic growth opment priorities by 2020. The majority of hide them. It is of the utmost importance, independence. This is possible only by through agencies, amounts to over 9,600, duction and distribution centre in Rus- in the years to come. In terms of terri- products intended for the Russian market since it provides for development, invest- achieving good results, with proper or- half of whom work in Slovenia and half sia, the Krka Rus 2. Its location is in the tory and operational methods, the Rus- will be produced in Slovenia in the future. ment, business expansion, employment ganisation and development. abroad. This year, we will increase our immediate vicinity of existing produc- sian market is the closest of this group to and, lastly, dividends.” (Jože Colarič) We expect that, in the forthcoming headcount by 5%. tion capacities. The investment, which is Slovenia, and one of Krka’s key markets.

30 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 31 GREEN CORNER

Polona Prešeren, photo: Darinka Mladenovič and Polona Prešeren

The preservation of different plant varieties – especially native and traditional – is of vital importance in maintaining the biodiversity of cultivated plants. Seed libraries have SEED LIBRARY proved to be a good practice to follow in preserving this diversity throughout the world; last year, we began following this practice within the framework of Maribor 2012 – the European Capital of Culture.

According to some data, three-quarters of the world’s of which indigenous varieties should be stored in the seed cultivated plants have been lost to extinction during the last library as their collection and cataloguing have only just century as a consequence of industrial single-crop farming. started. It is estimated that approximately 85 per cent of all Agriculture has been subjected to an ever increasing pressure varieties have become extinct; efforts should be made as a to produce more and maximise profits, which has rendered matter of urgency to preserve as many of those that remain old local varieties all but a memory – a time when the quality as possible. of food was the most important issue. METHOD OF OPERATION WHAT IS A SEED LIBRARY? The vision of the seed library is to facilitate the exchange A seed library is an alternative method of preserving the of seeds and planting material between its members free of biodiversity of cultivated plants; it also strengthens local charge. It is based on the system of free of charge exchange of communities and returns seeds back into people’s hands goods, which also contributes towards the strengthening of and nature. Its primary mission is to protect, preserve and the seed guardian community. Any small contribution made promote the re-cultivation of old varieties intended for by an individual guardian will add to the diversity of Slovenian human consumption (native, traditional or domesticated varieties, and increase seed selection and accessibility. One plant varieties). Its attention is focused on finding and basic rule must be followed: healthy and quality seeds are a collecting rare or endangered species and vegetables, field precondition for the quality of next year’s crops. crops, fruit plants, and vine varieties that are no longer Seeds are lent out in a manner similar to that of a book available in commercial seed catalogues. library: you borrow ten and return twelve seeds. In this way, The seed library scheme is not well known in Slovenia. the library’s collection increases. The Seed Guardians Association has established such a library The seed library has attracted a lot of attention and is within a programme section entitled Urban Furrows in the expected to thrive in the future. This is also possibly because framework of Maribor 2012 – the European Capital of Culture; the Seed Guardians Association has dedicated its efforts to its aim is to protect the biodiversity of the old cultivated plant educating and raising awareness among school children, varieties adapted to local conditions and to promote their re- mainly those attending primary school senior classes. They cultivation. are thrilled by the new knowledge and say that they would be Anton Komat, the independent researcher and ecologist, happy to make use of it. says that there are native, traditional and adapted cultivated In his encyclopaedia The Glory of the Duchy of Carniola plant varieties. He holds that seed libraries have the following (1689), Janez Vajkard Valvasor wrote about the wheat major tasks: to collect seeds (seeds are kept on the plants used by farmers to make starch, about buckwheat and its to show their statuses and habitus); to fill in a record porridge, and on the subject of sorghum, bean and chickpea. questionnaire, draw sketches and take photographs of each He reported on the hundreds of apple varieties in Carniola, variety; to describe and determine a plant variety and enter peaches, which the farmers dried, quinces used for making data into a virtual seed library and/or e-data collection. It is quince cheese, and different walnut varieties. People used important to preserve the purity of the variety, to maintain the plants to make food, clothes (flax, hemp) and tools (sorghum, collection in the seed library, and to propagate, disseminate hemp). Valvasor described the traditional varieties grown and exchange seeds. in the territory of the present-day Slovenia; it would be The aim of the seed library is to ensure seed access to intriguing to see how many have endured until now. This all Slovenia’s inhabitants. “We will also establish links with concerns the issue of self-sufficient supply — losing a part other saviours of old plant varieties from Central Europe. It is of this biological heritage would result in partial loss of self- essential to establish an efficient network of seed saviours,” sufficiency. Unlike hybrid varieties, traditional varieties are emphasised Komat. At present, there is no clear knowledge adapted to the conditions in our regions.

32 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 33 PEOPLE

Mateja Malnar Štembal, photo: Mateja J.Potočnik MARKO PAVLINEC

AESTHETICS + FUNCTIONALITY

The young designer Marko Pavlinec says that he first started designing things in his garage at home (he still likes Lego) and that he is certain that many products we use every day are not user-friendly. When he comes upon such products, he sees that they could be improved, simplified and made more effective. And he also sees that they could be more attractive. He finds room for improvement in the most everyday items, which seem as if they cannot be improved at all.

Marko says he wishes to offer prod- or industrial design is very different from are thoroughly considered; all the effects ucts at affordable prices – anyone can im- many other designers. He wants to im- on the bird house caused by exposure to prove products with a huge financial in- prove the quality of people’s lives, and be- demanding weather conditions are taken vestment, but to find a way of increasing lieves that we should take the content and into account. It consists of two pentagonal the usability of a product with a smaller form of natural systems as models. modules fitted together, and its purpose investment is a greater art. So far, he has can be changed by adjusting them. designed many useful items, includ- PRODUCT CREATION On the creation of the feeder and nest, ing a cup, a motorbike, taps, and a chair, Marko says that he tried to design an in- amongst other things. He regards the joy of creating a new teresting and useful bird house, but before Marko, officially still a student at the product as his greatest reward. For him, a that he had to do some research on birds Department of Industrial Design of the design award mainly incorporates a phi- to find out more about various species and Academy of Fine Arts and Design, does losophy, a way of thinking. However, it is their habits; only then was he able to re- not like the word ‘design’. He prefers the significant that he recently received the alise his ideas. terms ‘designing’ or ‘creating’, which are first jury award in a competition spon- connected to use and to usefulness. At the sored by Gorenjska Banka to design a THE NAME ITSELF SAYS A LOT Rinz creative design studio that he found- bird house. In his design, Marko primar- ed with his brother, he tries to combine ily wanted the bird house to be a pleas- The bird house is not the first design functional and aesthetic elements. He is ant home for birds and not a fashion item achievement that came from Marko’s responsible for designing and creating, for people. With the warmth of spruce skilled fingers. He attracted special atten- while his brother covers marketing and and oak wood, and designed for use in tion by designing an ergonomic shovel - sales. different seasons, the bird house serves called Efekt - for which he received the He is mainly interested in people and as a feeder in autumn and winter and BIO Honourable Mention in 2008. It is a the things around them. Marko says that as a nest box in spring and summer. The special multi-purpose ergonomic shovel, an industrial product is a projection of jury felt that the bird house included just appropriate for all seasons and various our attitude to our social environment, the right amount of design – it does not agricultural, horticultural and domestic and vice versa. His approach to graphic dominate its functionality. All the details work, when a strong and efficient tool for

34 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 35 removal and loading is needed. But the based his shovel on the simplicity of a by Slovenian manufacturers as well, but THE FUTURE IS ALWAYS A CHALLENGE shovel is primarily for clearing snow. The product that is otherwise not always at present it is still hard to persuade them design considerably reduces the need for practical. Marko has had the opportunity to change production processes, tools bending, which relieves the spine and to toss around a lot of snow, so he under- and technology. back muscles; because of its innovative stood the weaknesses of ordinary shovels Marko’s shovel also qualified for the Marko is never short of challenges. He tor the user’s position and thus adapt to influence on society and the environ- geometry, it does not swivel around the quite well. But he did not think about ex- selection of products for the exhibition is creating an office chair for his diploma every movement. Each element will be ment through his products. axis of the handle. As he says himself, isting shovels when he designed his own, Designing the Republic: Architecture, show which offers users additional com- designed to enable complete freedom, Of course, innovation plays an im- many people have complimented him, and tried to create a more user-friendly Design and Photography in Slovenia fort, because it follows the movements simple functionality and efficiency. portant role alongside his knowledge of saying that it makes dealing with snow a tool. As he says himself, there is no big 1991–2011. The exhibition features prod- of the body and supports the parts of the The Slovenian design community design. And Marko is not lacking in that. lot less stressful, the work is easier, and secret to design and implementation. ucts with innovative approaches, out- body that are the most vulnerable. Marko acknowledges that Marko successfully Because of his knowledge and feeling for even fun. Because it is so interesting and Most of the solutions are in his mind; he standing strategies, inspiring vision, and is giving full consideration to this de- combines his technical knowledge with fine art, he is one of the most promising different, it is a pleasure to look at, even if only needs a strong enough desire. Marko ideas for new designs that were made in sign and taking it very seriously (he also knowledge of design and innovation. designers in Slovenia, and many of his it is only leaning against a wall. wants the long-term meaning of indus- the first two decades of this young Euro- needs to study certain medical aspects). Nevertheless, he is sensitive to the needs products will certainly make work easier It is worth mentioning that Marko trial design or redesign to be understood pean country. Marko’s chair will constantly moni- of users, and is trying to have a positive for people and make their lives simpler.

36 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 37 SPORTS

Andrej Stare, photo: STA

REBIRTH OF SKI JUMPING

Anže Lanišek – a new jumping star

Lanišek won at the Youth Olympic have consistently increased in range, At last year’s competition in Vikersund, Fifteen-year-old Anže Lanišek from Mengeš has suddenly emerged from among the best ski Games (for children aged up to 16) in deserving utmost admiration. The hill Kranjec was one of the best performers jumpers as a new ski jumping sensation. If this year’s results are to be believed, a star à la Primož Innsbruck, and he took fifth place in his record is as long as 239 metres, while the but, regrettably, fell victim to a change in Peterka is about to be born. first appearance at the Continental Cup. world ski jump record of 246.5 metres was weather conditions. The Vikersund ski- Only one day later, on the famous Paul set last year in Vikersund, Norway. From flying hill is currently the largest in the Ausserleitner hill in Bischofshofen, he the “cradle” of Planica, ski jumping has world, since it can accommodate jumps beat 73 competitors from 19 countries spread throughout Slovenia. Ski jumping of up to 250 metres. It was constructed to take the Continental Cup title. Thus, clubs can now be found in the majority of by the Slovenian engineer, Janez Gorišek, at barely 15 years of age, he became the Slovenian regions, with over 1,000 boys who is also planning the reconstruction of youngest winner of this contest. Anže will and girls practising the sport. our giant Planica ski jumping hill for next probably soon be given the opportunity This year, ski jumping in Slovenia has year. In addition to Kranjec, the members to participate in the World Cup, as he has received fresh impetus. In all competitions, of the ski jumping team will also include demonstrated remarkable composure, Slovenian jumpers are ranked among the Peter Prevc, Jurij Tepeš, Jure Šinkovec, superb technique and behaved like a true world ski jumping elite. The flyer, Robert and maybe someone else, hopefully champion. Interestingly, Primož Peterka, Kranjec, scored his victory at the Men’s combining to claim a team championship the best Slovenian ski jumper of all time, World Cup in Kulm, while the 18-year- medal for Slovenia. appeared at his first World Cup when he old Peter Prevc landed right under the The second ski jumping development was just 16 years old, celebrating his first winners’ podium in Zakopane in Poland, will be the World Cup Finals in Planica. victory at Zakopane in Poland only a few taking an outstanding fourth place. This This year, three World Cup competitions days later. Will Anže Lanišek surpass these year, Jurij Tepeš and Jernej Damjan were are envisaged to take place under Mount two outstanding achievements? Goran also among the ten best performers, with Ponca : one team and two individual Janus, the head coach of the Slovenian Jure Šinkovec and Dejan Judež following competitions. Thus far, no Slovenian ski ski jumping team, said the following closely behind. By taking fourth place jumper has yet won a competition at the about the young ski jumper from Mengeš: in the special total score of ski jumping Planica ski jumping hill. Is the year of “Anže is a real pearl. He trains with an teams, the Slovenian team is fast on the 2012 finally going to see the first Slovenian exceptional ease, he is a born jumper. His heels of the strongest countries – Austria, ski jumper win at Planica – the home talent is remarkable, as much as Peterka’s Norway and Germany. of ski jumping and flying? Last year, – maybe even more. I hope puberty will This year, the first women’s ski jumping Robert Kranjec came second, just behind not affect his development. If he is able World Cup is to be held. This competition Poland’s Kamil Stoch. However, to rub salt to withstand the rigors of training and has evolved from the Continental Ski into the wound, Kranjec’s ski jump was 10 competition, Slovenia has a ski jumping Jumping Cup, and Maja Vtič, a young 23- metres longer than Stoch’s, but new rules champion for the next 15 seasons. Maybe year old ski jumper from Novo mesto on wind assistance meant Stoch took the the door of opportunity will open for who represents Skakalni klub Zabrdje victory. Planica will once again be too Lanišek to qualify for the World Cup as (the Zabrdje Jumping Club), is currently small for ski jumping fans. As is the case soon as this year, but this will depend on ranked third in the World Cup total score. every year, a four-day competition (three a number of circumstances. In any case, High placements for both young boys and competitions and a qualifications day) we need to take care of young Lanišek, girls are not unusual in the Continental will be viewed by over 60,000 people. since too many talents have faded away Cup. An outstanding performance was Planica is the Slovenian sports event and in the past because their coaches imposed delivered by 13-year-old Ema Klinec, last week of the year when all Slovenians too much responsibility and too many who twice came third at the Zakopane ski are totally united. The credit for this goes obligations on them.” jumping competitions. to ski jumping and our Planica. The Planica valley is situated under Slovenian ski jumpers, together Mount Ponca (2242 m) in the north-west with the staff headquarters and all ski of Slovenia and close to the borders with jumping fans, are expecting two major SKI JUMPING SCHEDULE FOR PLANICA 2012 Italy and Austria. In 1936, the valley developments. The first is to be held from hosted its first ski jumps – the most 24 – 26 February in Vikersund in Norway, 15 March: qualifications interesting and attractive of all winter which is to host the Ski Flying World 16 March: individual competition sports. Seventy-six years have passed Championships. Slovenia’s champion, 17 March: team competition since the first ski jump of 101 metres Robert Kranjec (232 m), currently in 18 March: World Cup finals – individual was achieved in 1936 by the legendary second place in the ski jumping World Cup, competition Austrian, Sepp Bradl; however, the jumps expects the most from this competition.

38 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 39 Slovenian Delights The restaurant mirrors the spirit and philosophy of its owners: with nut filling), and the like,” Mr Raspopović explains. “It was Svetozar Raspopović-Pope, the owner of the As Restaurant, who amazing to learn how the recipe for jota (bean and pickled turnip will go down in history as the man who changed the tastes of Lju- soup) used in the Vipava Valley differs from that used in the Karst Polona Prešeren, photo: Iztok Dimc bljana diners forever, and Ana Roš and Valter Kramar from Hiša Region, although the two regions are only several tens of kilome- Franko, who are an inexhaustible source of gastronomic creativity. tres apart.” In any event, the restaurant’s owners swear by natural When such exceptional culinary talents join forces, the end result and local ingredients. The offer is based on dishes from Slovenia’s is nothing short of excellence. culinary regions, and the restaurant’s dedicated team strives to ensure maximum quality, while respecting tradition. A RESTAURANT THAT LJUBLJANA NEEDED They offer simple dishes with a touch of modern cuisine, pre- serving and bringing out the natural flavour of the food they pre- Na gradu It just so happened that Ljubljana needed a restaurant within pare. They always use local and seasonal ingredients of certified the walls of the Ljubljana Castle. But not just any restaurant – the origin, which have a fuller taste. “Cooking offers endless possi- idea was to have a restaurant that would offer traditional Slove- bilities and we are convinced that we will never get bored. Our THE RESTAURANT WHERE THE AROMA OF HOMEMADE CHICKEN SOUP FILLS THE AIR nian dishes, given that the castle was also where the castle’s lords cuisine is based on what we have learnt from our mothers and once had their taste buds pampered. This was precisely Svetozar grandmothers,” adds Mr Raspopović. They understand how pre- Raspopović and Valter Kramar’s line of thinking, and when the cious home-grown vegetables and fruit are (their ice cream is also idea also garnered support from the Mayor of Ljubljana, the time made from local and seasonal fruit). When you arrive in the courtyard of Ljubljana Castle, you are welcomed by a pleasant aroma of was right to bring it to life. Owing to a variety of cultural influenc- Valter Kramar adds that the idea to have this kind of a restau- es, from Mediterranean, Alpine, Balkan to Hungarian, there were rant is not new, although they are all very proud to have put it into home-cooked food filling the air within the safe confines of the castle’s walls. If you decide to numerous possibilities for a modern take on traditional Slovenian practice. “Typical Slovenian cuisine is rich and has a certain char- visit the Na Gradu Restaurant at this time of year, your search for mushroom soup, asparagus or cuisine. acter. We do not want to change that. We accept and embrace all aubergine on the menu will be in vain. Instead, you will be offered seasonal, Slovenian and local “When I was learning the secrets of traditional dishes, I sensed the influences that have shaped Slovenian traditional cuisine. You the value and magnificence of these dishes. Just look at bograč (a will find that it has been inspired by an extraordinary mixture of delights, including fresh homemade chicken soup, which is on the menu every day and is made stew made out of at least three types of meat), bujta repa (sour cultures – Balkan, Mediterranean, Alpine, and Pannonian. People from the same recipe as that used by our mothers and grandmothers. or pickled turnip hotpot with pork), kobariški štruklji (dumplings here knew how to use the best of what their garden had to offer.”

40 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 41 LOCAL AND SEASONAL

They aim to offer top quality dishes at a competitive price. -Ac cordingly, they prepare and serve their food with great care. The restaurant chef, Damjan Fink, says that they swear by the use of exclusively Slovenian, preferably organic, produce. They buy food directly from farmers, taking care that the meat used is traceable and of certified origin. One of the house specialties is a bowl of chicken soup. It is cooked slowly and requires time to prepare, explains Damjan Fink. “The soup must be homemade – ‘the real thing’.” Everything on the menu is based on seasonal, local produce. They do not offer dishes with ingredients that could only be bought in a supermarket. In an effort to preserve pure and natural flavours, they do not use addi- tives or artificial flavours, or thicken their sauces with flour. They use low-fat cooking methods and let the fresh and high-quality ingredients used develop and release their full flavour. The menu is changed regularly to reflect seasonal produce. They select their recipes carefully. Dishes are always served with as little added fat as possible. Instead of traditional roast crackling, you will be served crackling with apple slices, which is really in- credible. I have tried it and I can assure you it is a real treat!

WHAT ELSE CAN GUESTS LOOK FORWARD TO?

Excellent Slovenian fish, veal and lamb of certified origin, for sure. A dish very popular among guests is zabeljena polenta (corn porridge served with cottage cheese and bacon), which is some- what surprising, explains the head of the restaurant, Leon Furman. He believes that the presentation of a dish plays a very important role in shaping guests’ preferences. Foreign visitors who decide to spice up their visit to Ljubljana Castle and tickle their taste buds with excellent cuisine are also among the restaurant’s most frequent guests. They enjoy try- ing Slovenian food. But that does not mean that the restaurant is aimed primarily at foreign visitors. In fact, many Slovenians are very keen on traditional Slovenian cuisine prepared with the fin- est ingredients. Our culinary culture has leapt forward as more and more people tend to embrace the finest, top quality food of certified origin. Fried chicken wings, Piran sea bass, and kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage) – the queen of sausages – are a permanent fixture on the menu. In order to offer their guests the very best kranjska klobasa, they prepare the dish with less fat and in a dif- ferent way, enhancing its flavour. Since the sausage is much tastier if freshly cooked, they have decided to serve it in a cooper bowl. Such sophisticated approaches allow the restaurant to always be one step ahead of the competition. They also have a range of deli- cious desserts on offer, with the castle cream cake and the deli- cious grandma’s apple pie, made with home-grown apples, every- day items on the menu. Having received very positive feedback from their guests, they will continue to strive for excellence. They still have plenty of ideas. “We are wedded to tradition, and there are still so many recipes we want to cook. We have taken this as a challenge and have the will to make it a reality,” concludes Svetozar Raspopović.

42 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 43 society

This a time when traditional carni- a fearful figure, and so he should be, as The greatest disgrace that can befall a val parades are taking place in Slovenian he is supposed to chase away winter! He Kurent is the loss of his mask if it is taken Polona Prešeren, photo: archives towns, the most famous being the one wears a white or black sheepskin garment off for any reason whatsoever. Tradition- in Ptuj, the home of the Kurents, and in adorned with big cowbells and handker- ally, the Kurents are always accompanied Cerknica, where the carnival’s emblem is chiefs dangling from a leather belt or a by a devil dressed in a red costume made a witch. As always, the carnival’s rule is: chain. While these bells are inherited and of rags. Because he can move more eas- laugh and have fun, eat and drink, and transferred from generation to genera- ily, he can be of great help to the Kurents. turn the world upside down! Once, it was tion, Kurent gathers handkerchiefs from What he likes best is to scare children. Carnival – a time for indeed like that. Everyone was gripped young women. He wears a furry cap with The present day Kurent stems from folk by frenzy during the wild carnival days a finely embroidered red tongue. The cap tradition. In the past, only unmarried men – in certain places and regions perhaps is trimmed with two cattle horns and two were allowed to put on the Kurent cos- more than elsewhere. The masks, too, dif- thin sticks adorned with feather tufts. In tume, while today anyone — married or celebration and joy fered from region to region, meaning that his hand, Kurent usually carried a wood- single, young or old, male or female — can the ones worn in rural areas might have en club, wrapped up in hedgehog skin on wear it. The main role that Kurents have not looked the same as the ones used in one end. Tied around the club were hand- today is the preservation of carnival cul- towns. kerchiefs collected by the Kurents from tural heritage and tradition. In the coun- According to Slovenian tradition, St. Valentine unlocks the roots of the crops, setting Now, however, the rural carnival is also girls. The most popular one had of course tryside, the arrival of the Kurent has always undergoing noticeable changes. In Slove- most handkerchiefs. If there had been any announced the beginning of the new life them free to grow, whereas winter is, ostensibly, chased away by the carnival. In the nia, at least one hundred and fifty tradi- envy, the Kurents would eventually settle which comes with the springtime. People old days, this was a time marked by many customs and superstitions, and particularly tional carnival masks have been preserved the problem among themselves. always respected this creature. a time that had to be celebrated by consuming plenty of food and drink. Therefore, – quite a figure for a relatively small coun- In the past, the Kurent’s costume was There are, however, also other carnival try. Among them, typical Mediterranean, reserved only for men; later, this tradition figures in Slovenia, some of them having it was followed by the obligatory Lent, forty days of fasting. Nowadays, strong and Pannonian and Alpine masks prevail. was notably taken over by children. Like been revived only recently. Such figures, nutritious food is still a must, and on top of that, one or two doughnuts fried in oil or One of the most recognizable Slove- elsewhere, the original purpose of the car- for example, are laufarji and pustovi wear- fat are also allowed. nian carnival masks is certainly Kurent. nival in Slovenia was people’s wish to in- ing wooden masks, and the Prekmurje A carnival figure, well-known all over fluence nature. Indeed, by jumping about pozvačin, inviting people to weddings and the world, dwells in Ptujsko and Dravsko to sound the bells and chains, the Kurents offering people drinks and sweets. Carni- Polje, and in the Haloze Hills. Kurent is were chasing away winter. val was in fact also a time for weddings.

The Ptuj Carnival, called Kurentovanje, which is the largest carnival festival in Slovenia, has been held since 1960s. This year 50 000 people from all around visited the carnival. The Ptuj event is designed to preserve the cultural heritage and ethno- graphic tradition of the Ptuj region as well as of Slovenia. Kurentovanje, which is one of the most important traditional events in Slovenia and Central Europe, stems from a hundred-year-old tradition of celebrating the Carnival in the areas of Dravsko and Ptujsko Polje, and always brings magical joy and good humour. Kurentovanje in Ptuj is not just another festival, but an experience one remembers forever.

Ptuj is the eighth largest city in Slovenia. It lies amidst wine growing hills in the Štajerska region in northern Slovenia. Being the oldest Slovenian city, it is particularly well-known for its history and tradition. Ptuj was founded at the intersection point of various cultures and roads, which connected east with west. Alongside Kurentovanje, the Water Tower, the castle above the city and the oldest wine cellar in Slovenia are Ptuj’s main attractions.

44 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 45 THE SYMBOL OF THE CITY

The city’s coat-of-arms, which features a green dragon sitting on top of the castle tow- er, under which the greenery of the castle hill can be seen, has made Ljubljana Castle a hard-to-miss symbol of the city and its most popular attraction. Both the castle and the dragon have an ancient tradition that goes back to the twelfth century, which is when the first references to the medieval town of Ljubljana were recorded. History tells us that, at that time, a small wooden fort was already located on the hill, which was then replaced by a stone building soon afterwards. However, the first explicit mention of the castle itself dates back to the thirteenth century. The location of the castle, on a steep hill right above the City Hall and the Ljubljanica River, was so prominent that ancient travellers referred to Ljubljana as “the town below the castle”. The basis for the symbol used, now widely known, seemed obvious at the time.

The city symbols of at least two other riod during the sixteenth and seventeenth a larger castle. Throughout the following famous European cities – Salzburg and centuries, but even then it remained sub- century, the castle was progressively fur- Prague – have developed in a similar way. ordinate to the military’s requirements; nished with the majority of the facilities As with Ljubljana, their castles have al- therefore, the influence of its privileged we can admire today. These include a pen- ways been sure points of reference and, residents, who might have been inter- tagonal tower, St Jurij’s chapel, a duke’s HERITAGE of course, tourist attractions in their own ested in the finesse of the building’s de- tower formerly known as Padav (now right. However, for Ljubljana at least, the tails, interior design and furnishing, and known as Šance), which is connected to castle has not always been open for visits. the layout of the castle’s courtyard, never the castle by a separate wall, and the rest prevailed. The fortress thus remained a of the buildings, of which the most at- TURBULENT HISTORY mixture of military warehouses, garrisons tractive are the Estate Hall and the Pala- THE CASTLE and almost bare courtyards. The castle’s tium, the only premises which served as Ljubljana Castle, in contrast to the cas- history has always been in harmony with residences for the nobility. An even more tles in Prague and Salzburg, was a military the purpose of its function: the first rela- bitter fate befell the castle after the sev- WHICH MARKS fortress from the outset. The structure and tively small fortress, whose owners were enteenth century: the fort was neglected image of such buildings are rarely attrac- the Spanheims, a German family, was ad- and used to store large quantities of gun- tive, since their architecture is distinctly ditionally fortified in the fourteenth cen- powder, which posed a fatal risk to the THE CITY subordinate to their functionality and on- tury when a new tower was added; the town. In the eighteenth century, the castle going needs. The castle was a provincial fortress was almost completely torn down was to be demolished but Napoleon, who governors’ residence for only a short pe- in the fifteenth century and replaced with had conquered Ljubljana, saved it from

Jože Osterman, photo: Ljubljana Castle archives

46 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 47 doom. The castle was then converted into medieval fortress; its gaping entrance can been managing the castle since the mid- somewhere in the region of half a million The range of services on offer at the trademarks of the reconstructed castle. a penitentiary and the only improvement be accessed by traversing the wide bridge dle of last year have succeeded in stepping visitors per year, but this figure has al- castle is rich indeed. There is nowhere else The two wedding halls have been used for worthy of note during that time was the that crosses the former defence moat, up and enlivening the pace of castle life. ready been surpassed; last year, 260,000 in Ljubljana that offers so many cultural over twenty years and the director is con- erection of the present day lookout tower, whereas the rest of the castle’s facilities For a decade before that, the events held tickets were sold for the collections and and other events in one place. The per- cerned about the autumn wedding rush, which was knocked down and replaced as are only partially reminiscent of its his- at the castle were managed by the organ- exhibitions. Twice as many visitors as manent exhibition of 310-million-year- as this is when the wedding halls will re- part of the general renovation of the castle tory. There is another entrance that leads iser of the Ljubljana Summer Festival. To- tickets sold are thought to have been at- old rocks, which contain fossils, and the quire refurbishment after all these years in 1980. After the Second World War, sev- to the castle on the south side, which is day, the castle is a major cultural, social, tracted by other interests to the castle. This permanent exhibition on Slovenian his- of service. eral socially disadvantaged families lived quite rare for fortresses of this kind, but tourist and catering hotspot, which strikes means that the number of visitors today tory are joined by a new virtual exhibition It is in fact quite surprising how deep- in the castle; the neglected grounds dete- easy to understand in this case because just the right note of exclusivity to attract is close to 800,000 people! This increase on the history of Ljubljana Castle; these ly the castle has become entrenched in riorated even further until they became Ljubljana’s inhabitants have made around business people and distinguished visi- has been largely boosted by the funicu- exhibitions satisfy the wishes of visitors Ljubljana and Slovenian daily life. This is a major disgrace to the city. However, by a hundred different paths to climb the hill tors who come to Ljubljana to attend im- lar, which has now been in operation for who might have expected to see the castle very good indeed! Today, it is one of the 1960, this period came to a close when to their beloved castle. portant conferences and meetings, for all five years and has made visiting the castle museum, and serve as the foundations of most frequented tourist destinations in the city authorities decided to undertake kinds of people interested in culture and, possible for many who otherwise would a programme that make it worth paying Slovenia, because it has become a must- a thorough reconstruction of the castle, SOCIAL CENTRE of course, a great many tourists for whom have been unable to do so, either ow- a visit to the castle at any time. Particu- see destination for many. Several events largely financed by Ljubljana’s inhabit- a visit to Ljubljana Castle is a must during ing to a lack of time or for other reasons. larly during the summer, the above events offering quick but informative insights ants directly. Needless to say, visitors are hugely im- their stay in Ljubljana. Particularly at the Around half of the castle’s visitors take are supplemented by at least two or three into the history of the city have found The way in which the castle was re- pressed upon entering the castle. The wide end of the week, the castle is visited by the funicular, which has become a special exhibitions featuring the artistic opuses their home at the castle. The very fact constructed has caused feelings to run paved castle courtyard, mostly surrounded people from all parts of Slovenia and Lju- attraction, especially for children. Given of prominent cultural figures, frequent that we at Sinfo are writing about this fa- high ever since. In light of the fact that by typical medieval features, is airy, often bljana, who consider a walk to the castle the ambitious programmes and energy of events taking place in the most exquisite mous attraction in Slovenia only now is the castle building had no great cultural filled with sunshine and pleasant. Visitors to be a mandatory part of their leisure the castle’s management team, the effects part of the castle – the Estate Hall – not indicative of how integral the castle has value, a group of architects led by Miha are beckoned from all sides by a variety time. The Director, Mateja Avbelj Valentan, of which can be seen every step of the to mention the excellent catering service, become to Ljubljana and its inhabitants. Kerin carried out the reconstruction of the of exhibition premises, galleries and mu- and the Head of Public Relations, Jasmina way, the two ladies have assured us with which numbers probably two of Ljublja- We should therefore conclude by saying castle in line with the new purposes it was seum collections. Particularly in the sum- Pinoza, are rightly proud to say that the confidence that the figure of one million na’s best restaurateurs amongst its staff. that meticulous care should be taken of to serve. The castle’s shell, with its mighty mer, there are a wide variety of events go- number of visitors expected by those car- visitors is a realistic target and will soon Saturdays in particular are reserved for such treasures. walls, preserves its authentic image as a ing on, because the young team that has rying out the reconstruction works was be reached. weddings, which have become one of the

48 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 49 50 Government Communication Office Sinfo – Slovenian information 51 Winter Photo: Borut Peterlin