The day kicked off informally with a breakfast meeting with the faculty’s leadership, followed by a brief introduction to Ostrava and the faculty itself. The focus was on areas with strong collaboration potential—particularly materials research, advanced technologies, and their intersection with design.
The highlight of the visit was the open lecture titled “The Exploration of Digital Objects in Physical Spaces,” which attracted both students and the public. Rik offered insight into his creative process and demonstrated how he transforms digital concepts into physical objects—in other words, how art moves from the screen into the real world.
The event also welcomed guests from the fields of design and public administration, including Adéla Koudelová representing the City of Ostrava, Karolína Skorková (Meat Design), and fashion designer Lada Vyvialová (LADA). Their presence underscored the growing importance of connecting creative industries with technical education and research.
The afternoon program featured tours of selected laboratories and research facilities. Discussions quickly turned to concrete collaboration opportunities—from 3D printing to materials research. Particular attention was given to ceramic 3D printing, as well as a bachelor’s thesis project by student Ivana Vlčková, which sparked a lively debate on how to further integrate artistic approaches with technological innovation.
“I see enormous potential here—in connecting science, materials research, and art. FMT can become a place where new and unexpected collaborations emerge. I’m already looking forward to the projects that will grow out of this meeting, as well as the opportunities it will bring to our students and colleagues,” said Kamila Janovská, Dean of the Faculty.
The visit concluded with agreements on concrete next steps, including preparations for an upcoming exhibition at Futureum in the Dolní Vítkovice area. In the meantime, visitors can already explore Rik’s work—his pieces are currently on display on the second floor of the VŠB–TUO Rectorate building.
