The island of Vis as a space for new ideas – exhibition by Faculty of Architecture students in Komiža

The exhibition "ISSA, Island City: Constructing New Utopias – Pirates of Freedom: A Community for a Happier Future" has opened in the exhibition space of the "Ivan Vitić" Cultural Center (Vis Archipelago Geopark Visitor Center) in Komiža. Students from the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Zagreb present conceptual architectural solutions aimed at rethinking the future development of the island of Vis. The exhibition is open to visitors until November 13, 2026.

The exhibition features work by students of the graduate program in architecture and urban planning, created as part of the Architectural Design Workshop 3 course under the mentorship of Associate Professor Lovorka Prpić and Assistant Professor Alan Kostrenčić.

Starting from the spatial, natural, and social characteristics of the island, the students developed architectural concepts that explore the possibilities for its future development. The presented solutions cover various topics, ranging from the revitalization of agriculture, viticulture, and local production to the sustainable use of natural resources, scientific research, and the development of new cultural, educational, and social content.

These works do not represent concrete investment plans, but rather research and design proposals that open up space for discussion about the future of the island community and the relationship between contemporary architecture and the existing landscape.

Geology and geoheritage as a starting point for understanding the island space

During the students' visit to the island of Vis, the Vis Archipelago Geopark team held a lecture on the geology and geoheritage of the archipelago, introducing them to the island's geological history, its natural features, and the value of its geological heritage.

Geological structure, relief, soil types, and water availability have significantly influenced the development of island settlements, agriculture, and traditional land-use practices. Understanding these characteristics is important not only for the preservation of natural and cultural heritage but also for the responsible planning of future spatial interventions.

Connections to the topics addressed by the Geopark are also evident in the student projects, particularly in those exploring water management in a karst landscape, the study of soil and climatic conditions, the revitalization of agricultural production, and the relationship between architecture and the traditional island landscape.

Such reflections open up possibilities for connecting contemporary architectural approaches with the natural features of the area, local knowledge, and the needs of the population.

Collaboration, education, and sustainable development

The collaboration between the Vis Archipelago Geopark and the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Zagreb is part of an effort to bring knowledge about the geological, natural, and cultural heritage of the archipelago to students from various scientific and professional fields.

An interdisciplinary approach is one of the key components of the work of UNESCO Global Geoparks. By connecting geology, architecture, spatial planning, agriculture, and social development, new perspectives are opened for understanding the space and its sustainable use.

The student exhibition provides a valuable look at Vis as a space for daily life, work, production, and community, rather than exclusively as a tourist destination.

We thank the students and mentors of the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Zagreb for their cooperation and for their interesting and creative reflections on the possibilities for the future development of our island.

We invite all interested parties to visit the exhibition at the "Ivan Vitić" Cultural Center (Vis Archipelago Geopark Visitor Center) in Komiža by November 13, 2026, and explore the presented student conceptual solutions.

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