“’Notes on an Abstract Dreamscape’ takes as its starting point a signature element of designer Cristian Samfira, initially explored in his clothing creations, then transposed into his painting, in lyrical, often monochrome abstract landscapes. This already recognisable motif consists of an agglutination of 3D angular geometric shapes, resulting in the present selection from experimentation with different materials such as acrylic, plaster and cement on the canvas surface. Taking the form of arid relief or, on the contrary, of volcanic fertile soil, Cristian Samfira's works claim abstract expressionism, placing themselves in a timeless and aspatial setting. The dreamlike atmosphere, in which the boundaries of reality dissolve into enigmatic shapes, colours and textures, invites introspection, offering both a window into the subconscious and an incursion into Cristian Samfira's imaginary and artistic practice, situated at the intersection between art, design and fashion.” (Ana Daniela Sultana)

Cristian Samfira is a creator recognized for his contributions to fashion and fashion design, with a prominent career in the industry and a significant impact on Romania's representation in fashion internationally. Born in Cluj, Cristian Samfira is a graduate of the “Romulus Ladea” High School of Fine Arts, Department of Monumental Painting and of the Fashion Design Department of the “Ioan Andreescu” Academy of Visual Arts. As a multidisciplinary artist, Cristian Samfira has realized numerous fashion presentations, being a constant presence at Paris Fashion Week, as well as at international events and fairs. He made the scenography for theatrical performances in Romania and France, and had numerous collaborations with theater and television productions. He also created costumes for the Odeon and Nottara Theaters in Bucharest and the Molière Theater in Paris. As a visual artist, he has participated in group exhibitions and art biennales in the country. In 2024, she received the UAPR Design Award and in 2025 the Best Romanian Fashion Designer Award from FORBES.

Ana Daniela Sultana is a curator and columnist, who graduated from the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. Her articles appear in ARTA magazine, Romanian-Italian Cultural Horizons and on agentiadecarte.ro. She collaborates with institutions such as The International Cultural Centre in Krakow, The Romanian Cultural Institute in Istanbul, The Romanian Cultural Institute in Vienna, The Romanian Cultural Institute in Venice, The Austrian Cultural Forum in Bucharest, The Museum of Bucharest, The Literature Museum in Bucharest, The Art Museum of Timișoara, Kunsthalle Feldbach, Aluniș Art Center and with various contemporary art galleries.

Photo credit: Cătălina Flămânzeanu