Faculty of Physics of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
There are several mosaic panels in the building of Sofia University’s Department of physics, which were co-designed by artists Rujko Chelebiev and Toma Varbanov. The panels were created in the transition years after the fall of the socialist regime and bear the characteristics of monumental artwork during the 1980s. During this time images with symbolic meaning become more prominent in monumental and mosaic art. An abundance of visual elements and the dynamics between them characterize both works.
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Mosaic “Einstein” in the foyer by Toma Varbanov, 1989
The mosaic is dedicated to the famous physicist Albert Einstein. The colors are well balanced, neutral, and correspond smoothly with their surroundings. The style of the mosaic is typical for the 1980s: a multitude of symbolic images and varying expanses presented in different perspectives. The depiction of Einstein is very detailed and clearly recognizable. The rest of the mosaic’s space is filled with abstract geometric shapes.
Mosaics “Physics 1” and “Physics 2” by Rujko Chelebiev, 1989
The two panels have a similar composition. Images related to mathematics and natural sciences like physics and astronomy take up the centers of both mosaics. The idea of the cycle of life, regardless of whether it is related to antiquity or modernity, is depicted through inscribed circles that serve as symbols of eternity. Various details and designs associated with the laws of physics float around the central images. The compositions and color palette are both compact and harmonious and show the artist’s usual attention to detail. The main colors are green, gray, and ochre while black and white are accent shades. The relationship between space and perspective in the mosaics is intentionally left ambiguous but the panels fit in well with the interior of the university.
Gallery: “Physics 1”
Gallery: “Physics 2”
