Medzi nami
Vladimír Durbák, Bratislava 2026
bronze, granite
height 230 cm, width 300 cm, depth 100
The sculpture was donated by the Diplomatic Mission of the Slovak Republic to the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic.
The work was completed with financial support from the PENTA Foundation.
Artistic concept and intent of the work
The sculpture 'Medzi nami' is a symbolic depiction of the unique relationship between the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic. It draws upon the experience of the shared state of Czechoslovakia, but above all upon the values that both nations have preserved even after the creation of two independent republics.
The core idea of the work is the principle of optical unity and physical independence. From a frontal view, the composition appears as a single harmonious whole. From side views, two independent forms gradually reveal themselves, retaining their own identity while remaining in a mutual dialogue. This spatial principle symbolically expresses today's relationship between the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic. These are two sovereign states bound by the history of the shared state of Czechoslovakia, cultural affinity, mutual linguistic intelligibility and a multitude of interpersonal ties across generations.
The dominant theme of the work is the visual form of the territories of the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic. Their shape is not merely seen as a geographical representation, but as an artistic symbol of two countries that retain their own territorial identity while simultaneously creating a shared space for communication and cooperation. It is precisely this space, created between the two parts of the composition (the wings), that gave the work its name 'Medzi nami'. It has become dominant – representing a space of trust, understanding, dialogue and natural partnership.
In the very centre of the composition lies the motif of intersecting hands. This gesture does not merely represent a symbol of diplomatic relations, but rather primarily expresses the meeting of people, their capacity for friendly cooperation, mutual assistance and the exchange of experience.
The granite block forms the foundation of the entire composition and carries a significant layer of meaning. It symbolises the experience of the shared state of Czechoslovakia, from which today's relations between the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic have grown. Granite, as a natural material that stands the test of time, embodies enduring values, historical continuity and a solid foundation from which the bronze composition (the wings) rises, expressing the present state whilst looking towards the future.
The bronze part of the work is crafted as an open, stylised mesh structure composed of outline units. The interconnected lines symbolise relationships that have developed over time and continue to evolve naturally to this day. Relations between the two countries are not a closed chapter in history; they are forging new bonds between successive generations in a unique spirit of peaceful coexistence.
The work 'Medzi nami' is designed as a timeless symbol of friendship that transcends political changes and historical milestones. Its placement in the Straka Academy garden gives the sculpture a dignified public dimension. However, its message extends beyond the framework of state institutions. It addresses everyone who perceives friendship as a value forged by mutual respect and understanding. It is precisely in the space between us that relationships are formed, those which can even endure within a changing world while remaining a firm part of the shared future of the Slovak Republic and the Czech Republic.
