ROMANIAN FESTIVAL

Art and music festival in support of the PRO PATRIMONIO and ADEPT Foundations

The Romanian Cultural Institute in London was thrilled to support Fundatia Adept Transilvania to mark its 20th anniversary. The ADEPT Foundation works to preserve Romania’s astonishing biodiversity and rural development. The charity’s journey started over two decades ago as they realised the ‘high nature value landscapes’ of Transylvania and the small rural communities that shaped them over the centuries were under threat. ADEPT’s work has focused on shaping an economic future for these communities while preserving the natural landscape.

This week, we opened an exhibition at the Romanian Cultural Institute in London of paintings and sculptures inspired by Romania’s countryside to celebrate The ADEPT Foundation’s impact over the last two decades and support future projects. All works have been produced by British artists – Katherine Alecse, Richard Foster, Joanna Galego, Felicity House, Clare Inskip, Jeremy Musson, Richard Pikesley, Tobit Roche, Tim Scott Bolton, Gail Sturgis and Gideon Summerfield – who spent time in Transylvania. The works of art are on sale, with some of the proceeds being donated to The Adept Foundation to fund new projects.

In her welcoming speech, our Director Aura Woodward, a former charity worker herself, spoke about the beauty of Romania’s countryside and the incredible impact of the ADEPT Foundation in supporting small rural communities while preserving the natural environment. Botanist Dr John Akeroyd gave a compelling talk about the charity’s work within the farmed rich landscapes and their biodiversity, which has captured the imagination of many people from Romania, Western Europe and further afield. HM King Charles, one of the major supporters of the ADEPT Foundation, pays regular visits to this region.

The exhibition opening was attended by HE Laura Popescu, Ambassador of Romania to the United Kingdom.

The exhibition is open until the 4th February 2025 from 2.00 – 4.00 pm and can be viewed by appointment at the Romanian Cultural Institute in London, 1 Belgrave Square SW1X 8PH. To book your visit, please email us at office.london@icr.ro

Many congratulations to everyone at The ADEPT Foundation and all the artists!

For the second day, the Romanian Cultural Institute in London was honoured to host an exceptional evening in celebration of Pro Patrimonio’s 25th anniversary. Often referred to as Romania’s National Trust and set up in London by Nicolae Ratiu and Indrei Ratiu with revered architect Șerban Cantacuzino, Pro Patrimonio has tirelessly worked to safeguard Romania’s architectural and cultural heritage, breathing new life into historic buildings and preserving their stories for future generations.

The evening began with a warm welcome address from Aura Woodward, Director of RCI London, followed by opening remarks from Pro Patrimonio trustee Nicolae Ratiu. Guests were then treated to a captivating talk by architectural historian Jeremy Musson, titled "The Role of Beauty in Cultural Heritage and Conservation".

The event concluded on a high note with a breathtaking performance by celebrated violinist Alexandru Tomescu and talented guitarist Dragos Ilie, whose music left everyone uplifted. Happy anniversary, Pro Patrimonio!

Follow the work of Pro Patrimonio at www.propatrimonio.org and become a member to help preserve Romania’s built heritage.

Photography by Alex Coman