Inspirational and Notable Personalities
The Faculty of Arts and Architecture at the Technical University of Liberec (TUL) has long been associated with distinguished and influential creative figures, both historically and in the present day. These individuals have made significant contributions to the fields of architecture and the arts, earning international respect and recognition.
Professor Jiří Suchomel, the founder of the faculty, is a seminal figure in its history. His work includes the design and realization of a residential building for the Internationale Bauausstellung in Berlin, Germany, and the Czech House in Malmö, Sweden. In recognition of his lifelong contributions to architecture, he was awarded the Honor of the Czech Chamber of Architects. Suchomel's vision and leadership have laid the foundation for the faculty's ongoing commitment to excellence.
Architects and educators Petr Stolín and Alena Mičeková have also brought significant acclaim to the faculty. Their innovative designs, such as the Zen Houses and the Nová Ruda Kindergarten, received the prestigious Best Building in the Czech Republic award from an independent international jury at the Czech Architecture Awards in 2016 and 2019, respectively. These projects highlight their commitment to blending architectural innovation with functionality and environmental sustainability.
Jiří Buček and the renowned SIAL studio added to the faculty’s prestige by winning the Grand Prix of Architects in 2014 for their exceptional work in transforming the historic Liberec City Spa into a vibrant Regional Art Gallery. Their project is a testament to the ability of architecture to breathe new life into historical structures while preserving their cultural significance.
Saman Saffarian, a leader in one of the architecture studios at the faculty, brings a wealth of international experience, having spent five years at Zaha Hadid Architects in London. His expertise in cutting-edge architectural design enriches the academic environment and provides students with invaluable insights into contemporary global practices.
Similarly, architect Radek Kolařík contributes to the faculty with his experience from working with Jean Nouvel in Paris, one of the most celebrated figures in modern architecture. Kolařík’s work exemplifies a commitment to innovative design and interdisciplinary collaboration, further enhancing the faculty’s reputation.
The Department of Arts at FAA TUL is led by Jan Stolín, an accomplished artist and curator. Stolín is known for his co-authorship of the Memorial to the Victims and Fighters for Homeland Freedom, an award-winning project that resonates deeply with Czech history. In 2000, Stolín was a finalist for the prestigious Jindřich Chalupecký Award, which is given annually to the most promising Czech artist under the age of 35. The department is further enriched by the contributions of visual artists Jaroslav Prokeš, Petra Vlachynská and Daniel Hanzlík, who bring their dynamic and innovative approaches to art into the educational experience. Additionally, the faculty regularly invites short-term visiting artist studio leaders each semester, ensuring a constantly evolving and diverse range of creative perspectives for the students.
Large Open Studio
The faculty's approach to studio teaching is exemplified by its unique open space studio, designed to foster a collaborative and shared creative environment. Inspired by the studio model at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, this space is unparalleled in Europe. Accessible 24/7, the studio provides ample room for independent creative activities, consultations, semester exhibitions, student competitions, and various related events. This open studio concept supports the development of a vibrant, interconnected community of artists and architects.
Equipment and Specialized Laboratories
The Faculty of Arts and Architecture at TUL is equipped with state-of-the-art resources that support the creative and technical development of its students. These include:
- model-making workshop where students can bring their designs to life.
- 3D printing equipment and a laser cutter for precision model creation.
- polystyrene cutter for large-scale models and installations.
- virtual reality lab that allows students to explore and present their projects in immersive 3D environments.
- CAD lab equipped with the latest software for digital design and drafting.
- light and sound laboratory for experimenting with multimedia and sensory projects.
- IT classroom offering the tools necessary for digital projects and research.
- print center for high-quality reproductions and print projects.
- extensive library focused on art and architecture, offering a wealth of resources for research and study.
- auditoriums and workshop classrooms that serve as spaces for lectures, seminars, and collaborative work.
These facilities ensure that students at the Faculty of Arts and Architecture have access to the tools and environments necessary to fully develop their creative potential, making the faculty a leading center for architectural and artistic education.
