HORA was happy to display the Romanian Spring Traditions exhibit between March 6th and April 15, 2022. This first stand-alone Romanian exhibit in Minnesota was located in the North Gallery of the Landmark Center. The exhibit was free and visitors learned about Romanian culture and traditions through the information in the exhibit and by conversations with our volunteers present every day.
This event was curated by HORA Romanian American Cultural Center Director Raluca Octav, and made possible with help from MN Landmarks and voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the opening of the Spring Traditions Exhibit on March 6th. We were honored to welcome Dorian Branea, Director of the Romanian Cultural Romanian Cultural Institute in New York / ICR New York, Robert Dumitrescu, Deputy Consul General, Chicago and Patrick Ledray, Honorary Consul, Minnesota. We were excited to receive the visit of the Manager of the Romanian Peasant Museum in Bucharest, Romania, Dr. Virgil Nițulescu.
A big thank you to all artists who created a unique energy: Colleen Bertsch, Eric Ray, Nicoleta Cornea and John Omorean, Director of Izvorasul Dance Ensemble.
Visitor Feedback:
Throughout the duration of the exhibit we welcomed over 800 visitors. Here are some entries in the visitor book:
“What a beautiful celebration of Romanian culture. I was here for the opening and the music was fantastic.”
Dan Vogel
“Hi! We are traveling here from Wyoming. We loved the exhibit. The clothes are so beautiful and amazing. It was so nice to learn more of the culture. And the Easter eggs – Wow! Such a lovely, friendly lady taught us so much. Just beautiful!”
Derek, Kris & Neko SandallWyoming
“The exhibit is wonderfully put together. A lot of wonderful knowledge worth sharing to many others. I found everything beautiful both in physical appearances and in spiritual understanding.”
John L. W.
“This exhibit has gained my interest in learning more about Romanian culture. Personally, of being a part of a cultural family learning about what is important The beliefs of the Romanian culture bring a sense of connection and interest of becoming more aware of the individuals around me. I really want to partake in the Romanian food!!”
Selina R.W.
“Thank you. I am of Romanian descent and planning to go to Romania this spring. It is great to be able to come here and get a preview.”
Jim and Nancy Nikora(Nicoara)
“Congratulations on an excellent display”
LuciaSt. Paul
“Very beautiful exhibit. So engaging and educational. Lovely as spring.”
LizSt. Paul
Congratulations to my friend and colleague, Raluca Octav who realized such a wonderful exhibition!”
Dr Virgil NitulescuManager of the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant
What a wonderful exhibition of a special culture! All the special handiwork and embroidery and more was extraordinary! Thank you very much for all who contributed these beautiful and interactive items!
Sandra G. and Art S.So, St. Paul
“Thank you for creating such a wonderful exhibit! Learning more about the culture and traditions of these people is a treat. It’s critical exhibits like this exist so we can learn and celebrate each other.”
Cody Pals
“A stunning exhibition!” We enjoyed learning about Romanian culture.”
Jim and Sherry BenoLakewood, WI
“Congratulations on a tremendous accomplishment and another success for HORA. Special kudos to Raluca and the incredible planning team.”
Vicki Albu
“Hi. My name is Liza. I’m an exchange student from Ukraine. The girl I live with is an exchange student from Moldova. I’m so happy she shows us Romanian culture. HORA is an amazing organization. Thank you for showing people something new and interesting.”
