New Exhibition at FOR MAAT!
Pavol Hovanec, Peter Barényi: Pilgrimage Attraction
Opening: November 14, 6:00 PM
Exhibition: November 14 – December 14, 2025
The exhibition Pilgrimage Attraction is not just a title or a metaphor framing the works of both artists. It is an authentic and unique project created specifically for this space and time—a literal attraction.
The concept of the “pilgrimage” naturally carries a dual, historically layered meaning. On one hand, it refers to religious tradition—a journey toward a sacred place that has accompanied humanity throughout history. On the other hand, in everyday language, it is associated with fairground attractions, a traveling visual theater of carousels and lights. What was originally a spiritual endeavor has, over the centuries, often become an empty show, a superficial backdrop.
Barényi and Hovanec transform this tension into a creative principle. The pilgrimage can be seen as a metaphor for their own artistic process—a journey that shaped them and is naturally inscribed in their work. Their Pilgrimage Attraction becomes a reflection of shared reality.
The activities of FOR MAAT gallery are supported by public funding from the Slovak Arts Council, the main partner of the project. FOR MAAT gallery is also a partner of Trenčín 2026, which is financially supported by the City of Trenčín, the Trenčín Self-Governing Region, and the Ministry of Culture of the Slovak Republic. The project is additionally supported by the European Union.