What the Eye Can(not) See: Period Scenography in Contemporary Slovak Cinema

The final Experts on Air session of 2025 invites FilmEU members to dive into the fascinating world of scenography in contemporary Slovak cinema.

Taking place at FTF VŠMU in Bratislava and streamed online, this session brings together three of Slovakia’s most distinctive voices in set design: acclaimed scenographers Juraj Kuchárek and the creative duo TAKÉ scény, formed by Dorota Volfová and Brigita Teplanová, who will offer a rare look into how historical worlds are researched, built, and brought to life on screen.

This masterclass will uncover what the screen often conceals – the meticulous research, detailed craftsmanship, and complex decision-making that shape the visual authenticity of period dramas. Participants will gain insight into how Slovak set designers work today, what makes period scenography uniquely demanding, and how each creative team transforms historical material into a contemporary cinematic experience.

Drawing from their experience across film, television, theatre, and from the work on some of the most anticipated Slovak films of 2025, including Duchoň, Potopa, Nepela or Perla, the speakers will discuss the creative and practical challenges that define period set design today and what it means to design for period stories within current local production realities.

Whether you're an aspiring set designer, filmmaker, or simply passionate about the unseen layers behind cinematic storytelling, this masterclass offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from the artists who craft the visual identity of Slovak film.

When: Tuesday, December 9th

Time: 17:00 CET.

Where: Cinema Klap, Film and Television Faculty of the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava, and online via FilmEU YouTube channel.

*The session will be held in Slovak language, with English subtitles.