In the beautiful setting of Nova Kraljevica Castle, the fifth anniversary edition of the international art event Ex tempore Kraljevica – The Lantern awakens was held on 13 September. Once again, the event brought together numerous painting and art enthusiasts, transforming Kraljevica into a meeting place of art, creativity, tradition, and positive energy.
This year’s open theme gave participants ample freedom for personal artistic expression while encouraging connections to the coastal region, its distinctive features, and local heritage. More than 80 participants of all generations arrived in Kraljevica to translate their vision of our region, its heritage, landscapes, and recognizable motifs into works of art. From the youngest primary school pupils to adult amateurs and professional artists, the castle became a vibrant space for creativity, socializing, and the exchange of artistic energy throughout the day.
The best works
Year after year, Ex tempore attracts an increasing number of children and adults, and this year was no exception, with many remarkable and inspiring artworks created during the event.
The expert jury, consisting of Bojana Cvejić Zagorc, Master of Fine Arts from Slovenia, local painter Nenad Petronio, and academic painter Ivan Tomečak, faced the challenging task of selecting the best works among a large number of entries.
After careful evaluation, the jury selected the winners in four categories.
Children – grades 1 to 4
1. Sofia Katunar
2. Vita Mandekić
3. Mara Matetić Šimunić
Children – grades 5 to 8
1. Eva Letnik
2. Eva Tomažin
3. Aria Antonić
Adults – amateurs
1. Ksenija Puškarić
2. Klaudio Katunar
3. Aida Tomljenović
Adults – professionals
1. Morena Brnčić
2. Edi Gustin
3. Nenad Jalšovec
In addition to practical awards, participants also received cash prizes. The top prize amounted to €300 in the Adult Amateur category and €700 in the Professional category. The prizes were provided by the Kraljevica Tourist Board and Atelier Tomečak, with the support of the City of Kraljevica and numerous sponsors.
The winning artworks will remain on display in the Multimedia Hall of Nova Kraljevica Castle until the end of September, allowing the artistic story of this year’s Ex tempore to continue as part of the castle’s cultural life for a little while longer.
The programme was further enriched by performances by the Male Klapa Kraljevica and Alen Polić, who also performed the special song “Kartulina z’ Kraljevice”.
Congratulations to all the winners, as well as to every participant who enriched this special event with their presence, creativity, and enthusiasm. We would also like to thank all sponsors, partners, and everyone who contributed to making the fifth edition of Ex tempore another wonderful gathering.
See you next year!