A comprehensive exhibition showcasing the life's work of renowned Carinthian artist Valentin Oman has opened at the Walker Gallery in Schloss Ebenau, offering generous insights into the creative cycles of the painter and sculptor born in 1935 in St. Stefan in Finkenstein. The exhibition, titled 'Spuren - Sledi' (Traces), presents the artistic journey of an artist who will turn 90 in December.

Valentin Oman stands as a living cultural institution in Carinthia, representing the early avant-garde movement in the region while establishing himself as a master of sacred art. His work primarily focuses on the human image, creating pieces that challenge viewers to think deeply about identity, heritage, and social issues. Throughout his career, Oman has demonstrated an impressive ability to provoke contemplation and inspire audiences through his artistic vision.

The artist's works can be found in numerous prominent locations throughout the region, including the church of Tanzenberg Monastery, the Slovenian Gymnasium in Klagenfurt, the Technology Park in Villach, and the Regional Hospital in Hermagor. One of his most notable recent installations consists of bronze steles erected in front of the Klagenfurt Concert House in 2025, commemorating the anniversary year. These monuments feature 164 of the 836 bilingual place names, serving as a powerful symbol of the region's linguistic diversity.

Provincial Governor and Cultural Affairs Commissioner Peter Kaiser described Oman as the artistic incarnation of the Alpe-Adria concept, emphasizing how the artist's identity formation, heritage, language, and bilingualism are omnipresent themes that extend far beyond Carinthia's borders. Kaiser praised Oman's works of the heart as having universal appeal and significance during yesterday's exhibition opening, which the artist himself attended despite his advanced age.

The current exhibition particularly highlights Oman's critical engagement with world politics, presenting his unique artistic perspective on global issues. His time-critical examination of international affairs, filtered through his distinctive artistic lens, demonstrates how local artists can address universal themes while maintaining their regional identity and cultural roots.

Visitors to the Walker Gallery at Schloss Ebenau can experience this remarkable collection until October 31st, providing ample opportunity to explore the traces of identity that have defined one of Carinthia's most significant contemporary artists. The exhibition represents not only a celebration of Oman's nine decades of life but also a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding across linguistic and national boundaries.