Art Klub KUK – a new creative hub in Zagreb

by croatiaweek
December 6, 2024
in Entertainment

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

by Doris Barić

Tucked away at Primorska 1, lies the newly opened Art Klub KUK, a cozy space for creativity and cultural exchange.

Founded by Argentine couple Lucía Ossoinak and Ignacio Rivas, KUK is not just another art studio—it’s a multifunctional haven where ideas flourish, skills are cultivated, and connections are made.

From Buenos Aires to Zagreb

Lucía, of Croatian heritage, and Ignacio, a multifaceted artist, moved to Zagreb from Buenos Aires three years ago. Their backgrounds are as rich as the community they’ve built.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Ignacio, known for his geometric murals and evocative collages, brings a wealth of experience from Buenos Aires’ dynamic art scene. Lucía, with a background in art history and cultural management, seamlessly merges her love for ceramics with her knack for mentorship.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Creativity, Community, and Cultural Exchange

A standout feature of KUK is its community-driven philosophy and multifunctional space. It hosts workshops in collage, embroidery, cyanotype, watercolor, and linocut, offering sessions in multiple languages to foster inclusivity.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Additionally, the studio doubles as a gallery, showcasing works by local and international artists. Its debut exhibition in September featured the works of Nano Ponto, a celebrated Argentine tattoo artist and photographer, setting a high bar for future displays.

Regular pop-up events and design fairs further enrich KUK’s diverse programming.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

“Zagreb lacks spaces that combine creativity, community, and cultural exchange,” says Ignacio. “This realization gave birth to KUK—a place where everyone can experience art in a fresh, inclusive way. We thrive on collaboration, inviting creatives from all over the world to share their skills, ideas, and stories with us.”

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Integrating Returnees Through Clay

At the heart of KUK’s mission is its role as an educational hub. Monthly ceramic workshops run by Lucía cater to both beginners and experienced artisans, offering hands-on opportunities to explore the intricacies of clay.

Special programs, like “Okolo Gline,” provide a creative outlet for returnees of Croatian heritage, blending artistry with the process of reintegration into life in Zagreb. Supported by Croatia’s Office for Croats Abroad, these sessions demonstrate how art can build bridges and foster belonging.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Experience the Holiday Spirit at KUK

This December, KUK’s calendar is filled with festive events. Join linocut workshops with Carla Modrić to craft printed Christmas designs or explore experimental filmmaking and animation with Agustina Vodanovich.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Ignacio will lead collage workshops focused on creating vision boards for the upcoming year, while the Pop-Up Cosmos art and design fair provides an opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind creations from local and international artists—a perfect chance to find unique Christmas gifts.

(Photo credit: Ignacio Rivas)

Adding to the festive cheer, Lucía’s cozy “Clay and Wine” evenings offer a delightful mix of warmth and creativity, alongside inspiring collage sessions with Elif Martinec.