Alojz Rigele's studio. (source: SME - Jozef Jakubčo)
Alojz Rigele is one of several artists whose work subtly complements Bratislava's streets. The sculptor from Bratislava worked in a small rented studio on Štefánikova Street his entire life.
While the similar studios of other artists have already been demolished, his wooden building stands almost unchanged to this day. However, its future is uncertain.
The Staré Mesto borough is fighting for its ownership with stonemason Ján Blahutiak, who has used the studio since 1983 and would like to preserve its original purpose and serve the public.
"The building was already in bad technical condition years ago. In addition, there is no title deed, so its place on the given plot of land is not legitimate," says Ivo Štassel, a director of the Municipal Institute of Monuments Protection in Bratislava.
According to him, the owners of the nearby building tried to demolish the studio, which the institute protested against at the time. "So, the legal situation is complicated, but we still see sense in preserving and using it for cultural purposes," Štassel explains.
Although the studio is marked as a monument, that does not guarantee any legal protection. Blahutiak insists that the studio remain in its place and not be replaced by just a tableau commemorating Rigele.
In the past, the space was used for art events several times; for example, in 1990 there was a memorial exhibition for the 50th anniversary of the sculptor's passing.
A conversion of the studio into a workshop for the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava students was considered, but Blahutiak did not consider the plan realistic. There is no active interest in doing something with the space seen on the part of the capital.
Staré Mesto claims that they are interested in the reconstruction, but first they want to settle the ownership.
"The borough is not interested in the demolishing of the building," says Martina Karmanovvá from the Staré Mesto communications department. However, the borough provided neither concrete steps to resolve the situation nor an idea about the studio's future.
A hidden treasure in a backyard
To find Rigele's studio, you have to enter the yard at 41 Štefániková Street. However, the wooden studio covered with grey waterproof blanket will most likely be locked, as Ján Blahutiak is currently using it as a storehouse as well as to finish some work. Neither is he there every day.
