AN UNPRECEDENTED EXHIBITION IN ORADEA (RO)
"Coptic Mysticism" was the title of the latest exhibition held at Romania's longest-standing Permanent Gallery of Photographic Art, the "Euro Foto Art" Gallery, located at the Exhibition Center of the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) in Oradea, Romania, and recognized by UNESCO.This time, the gallery displayed 72 masterfully crafted photographs by the renowned photographic artist Cristina Garzone AFI, IFI, EFIAF, MFIAP, EFIAP/d3, GPU CR3, VIP-3, SSS/B. All the images can be admired on the AIEFA website: Euro Foto Art. The exhibition titled "Coptic Mysticism" is organized by the International Association "Euro Foto Art" (AIEFA), the only Regional Member of the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP) recognized by UNESCO (https://www.fiap.net/en/members/irfiap), in partnership with Summit Agro Romania and the Criș Land Museum Oradea - Museum Complex, through its Oradea City Museum section. Dr. Cristina Pușcaș, a representative of the Oradea City Museum section, addressed the audience, emphasizing that the photographs were taken in Ethiopia, a region home to a Christian community for over 80 years and featuring 11 churches that have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1978. She highlighted the remarkable nature of these churches, carved into the ground to a depth of 12.5 meters, symbolizing the inhabitants' spiritual connection to these sacred sites. Especially notable is the Church of Saint George, whose roof lies at ground level. Cristina Garzone envisioned the project for this exhibition in 2012, undertaking three creative trips to Ethiopia, where she spent considerable time capturing these extraordinary scenes. Dr. Patricia Știrbu, president of Summit Agro Romania, highlighted the vital role of the Romanian-Japanese company in promoting healthy plant cultivation in Romania and the fruitful collaboration with AIEFA, exemplified by the inauguration of this exceptional exhibition. Art critic Dr. Ramona Novicov remarked that the exhibition brings us closer to Christ and emphasized the importance of periodically reconnecting with our spiritual roots in contemporary society. Greek-Catholic Bishop Virgil Bercea noted in his speech that faith and hope remain the cornerstones of human existence. The event also featured photographic artist Cristina Garzone, who participated virtually via the Zoom platform. She expressed her gratitude for the exceptional conditions provided for organizing her solo exhibition and regretted not being able to attend in person. At the conclusion of the event, AIEFA president handed over the AIEFA Patronage Certificate and FIAP auspices recognition to Ms. Monica Șinca from Florence, the AIEFA representative in Italy, who attended the event with her daughter. Father Mircea Ianc, representing His Grace Sofronie, Bishop of Oradea, was also present.The musical moments of the event were provided by Thurzó Sándor József, violist of the "Duo Sola Fide" Cultural Group from Oradea. He performed several Italian pieces transcribed for solo viola, including "Serenade" by Enrico, "Pur dicesti" by Antonio Lotti, "Madrigale" by Achille Simonetti, and "Berceuse" by Ottorino Respighi. Some of the exhibits will also be displayed on modern public transport screens in the city, thanks to a protocol between AIEFA and OTL SA. The exhibition of the Italian photographic artist Cristina Garzone will remain on display until October 4, 2023, and can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays).