Premiere of the Documentary Film “BUKOVAC – Light, Roots and Wings” at the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery

Zagreb, 18th September 2025 – A grand premiere of the feature-length documentary film “BUKOVAC – Light, Roots and Wings”, directed by Željko Rogošić, was held in the atrium of the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery. The film, produced by Wolfgang & Dolly in collaboration with the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery, unveils the previously underexplored story of the Zagreb years of the great painter Vlaho Bukovac, his influence on the artistic, cultural, and social life of the city, and the development of Croatian modernism at the end of the 19th century.

Through the 88-minute film, the audience discovered how Bukovac, already an established artist with a Parisian address, founded the Society of Croatian Artists in Zagreb between 1893 and 1898, initiated the construction of the Art Pavilion, and created works such as “Gundulić’s Dream”, “Dubravka”, and “The Croatian National Revival”. His time in Zagreb marked the emergence of the Zagreb Colourful School, and the film brings this era to life through archival materials, conversations with experts, and authentic locations in Zagreb, Vienna, Budapest, Cavtat, and Dubrovnik.

Director Željko Rogošić commented:
“I am truly grateful for the high level of organisation of the premiere screening at Klovićevi Dvori Gallery and exceptionally pleased with the large turnout and audience reactions. The genuine enthusiasm, praise, and feedback from both the expert public and those who love Bukovac and value his artistic work have strengthened our belief that we made a high-quality film and that the immense effort invested in its creation has paid off.”

Producer Tamara Babun Zovko added:
“BUKOVAC – Light, Roots and Wings” is primarily a film about how Zagreb became a serious city and the largest exhibition of Vlaho Bukovac’s works ever displayed in one place. Bukovac and his Zagreb years can help us understand the present state of the city, and I am particularly looking forward to the younger audience engaging with our film.”

Dr. Petra Vugrinec, Museum Advisor at the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery and expert collaborator on the film, said:
“The power of the media and film is immensely strong; their influence reaches wide, shaping opinions, educating generations, and forming attitudes. ‘BUKOVAC – Light, Roots and Wings’ tells the story of the cultural and artistic heritage of an era, upon which the identity of Zagreb still rests today.”

The premiere was attended by numerous dignitaries from the cultural, artistic, and public life, alongside representatives from institutions that supported the film’s creation. The film was presented by Professor Dr. Zvonko Maković.

Following the Zagreb premiere at the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery, the film was shown a few days later at the Bukovac House in Cavtat, the birthplace of the great artist. The next screening will take place on 27th September at the Visia Hall in Dubrovnik, in collaboration with the Dubrovnik Art Gallery, continuing the film’s journey through cities that were key to Bukovac’s life and work.

Further information on upcoming screenings can be found on the official social media pages of the production company, Wolfgang & Dolly.

MEDIA CONTACT
Wolfgang & Dolly Ltd.
Tibor Vukelić – tibor@wolfgangdolly.com | +385 99 689 8119
Antonija Bradač – antonija@wolfgangdolly.com | +385 91 482 6208
www.wolfgangdolly.com