Meron Gallery, located in the vibrant center of Cluj-Napoca, on the ground floor of the Blau Ullmann Palace, a historical monument built in 1910 and recognized for its impressive architecture, presents the first photography exhibition, “In Search of Connection”, signed by Claudiu Bruj.
Co-curated by Crina Ciocian and Mircea Oliv, the exhibition brings together a selection of 17 works composed of ink on Hahnemuhle Photo 200g Matt Fibre.
“Each exhibited work captures not only moments, but also genuine emotions. The streets turned into his studio, and every corner became an opportunity for discovery. The resulting photographs are not just simple visuals, but complex narratives waiting to be discovered. “In Search of Connection” explores deep and authentic emotions – joy, sadness, resilience and vulnerability. Each photo is an open window to the human soul, reflecting a varied range of feelings and experiences.
His profession as an architect allowed him to be on the streets in various locations thanks to his projects. Initially, Claudiu was a detached observer, hidden behind his lens. However, as he began to interact with the people he was photographing, each interaction, however brief, became a meaningful exchange. The subjects of his photographs were not just random strangers, they were mirrors that reflected different facets of his own humanity. Claudiu saw fragments of his story, struggles, and hopes through these people.
Through “In Search of Connection”, Claudiu Bruj found a way to navigate through his own struggles to understand and accept the complexity of his emotions. It was a journey of self-discovery that taught him that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. By sharing his stories, the artist found common ground and connection with others.” (excerpt from the exhibition text)
Claudiu Bruj (b. 1985) lives and works in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Originally from Bistrita-Năsăud County, he explores the intersections between visual arts, architecture and urban planning. His exhibition is a foray into the ever-changing dynamics of the urban environment and the depth of the human soul.
Claudiu Bruj describes his artistic approach as “a dialogue – an invitation to involvement, reflection and healing, to see beyond the images, an invitation to connect with the emotions and stories behind them. I wanted to create a narrative that resonated with viewers on a personal level, to be more than just visual experiences.”
The exhibition will be on display until July 9, 2024. The gallery is open every day of the week and is free to visit.
About Meron Gallery
The Meron Gallery is located in the heart of Cluj-Napoca on the ground floor of the Blau Ullmann Palace, an emblematic building in the category of historical monuments built in 1910. It has a generous surface, impressive glass windows, and high ceilings.
The building was returned to the community to promote art and artists, creating a unique atmosphere. In this special place, speciality coffee (by which the Meron brand is recognized today) and art meet and complement each other, bringing value to the artistic and cultural community of Cluj-Napoca.
