Dates: 14 – 17 May 2026
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
Type: on-site
From 14 – 17 May 2026, New Bulgarian University will host an intensive on-site ERUA course in contemporary painting practices, inviting Bachelor and Master students to immerse themselves in the expressive potential of impasto and abstract art.
Led by Assoc. Prof. Rumen Kozhuharov, PhD, the course is designed as a practice-based exploration of contemporary painting. Over four days, participants will engage in:
- Three consecutive 8-hour studio days combining hands-on practice with guided art history discussions
- A final 6-hour session dedicated to collective critique, reflection, and professional development guidance
Students will experiment with impasto techniques, palette knife applications, expressive brushwork, and material layering. The pedagogical approach integrates technical experimentation with critical discourse, connecting abstraction, emotion, and visual language within both historical and contemporary contexts.
The course emphasizes:
- The physicality and materiality of paint
- The relationship between texture, form, and emotional expression
- The accessibility of abstract painting when supported by structured guidance
- The role of artistic practice within everyday cultural and social environments
Through comparative discussions referencing contemporary artistic practices, students will gain insight into current standards and trends in fine art production. The programme also addresses strategies for presenting and communicating artistic work in digital environments and on social media—strengthening students’ professional visibility.
Upon successful completion the course offers 3 ECTS credits and is open to 20 ERUA students (including NBU students). No prior professional experience in fine art is required – only a strong interest in painting and a willingness to engage in intensive studio work.
Assessment and Public Exhibition
Evaluation is based on:
- The completed painting works produced during the course
- Engagement with impasto and abstract techniques
- Commitment and artistic development throughout the studio process
- A short oral presentation during the final review, where students articulate their artistic choices and influences
All completed artworks will be exhibited on the campus of New Bulgarian University, offering participants the opportunity to present their work in a public academic setting.
The university will provide paints and impasto materials, while students are expected to acquire their own canvases locally.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will have:
- Developed practical skills in impasto and abstract painting techniques;
- Strengthened their ability to connect artistic theory with studio practice;
- Enhanced critical thinking through peer critique and comparative analysis;
- Built confidence in presenting and articulating artistic concepts;
- Gained insight into professional artistic communication and exhibition practices.
The intensive format fosters sustained focus, experimentation, and reflective dialogue – key components of contemporary fine art education.
Application:
If you are interested, please contact Ass. Prof. Rumen Kozhuharov, PhD – rkozhuharov@nbu.bg
Application Deadline: 14 April 2026
Funding:
ERUA students can receive travelling and accommodation funding from their home universities! For more information related to traveling and funding opportunities contact your local ERUA coordinator.
