At the roundabout in front of the company ALU Komen, visitors are greeted by the Moon Gate—a unique stone sculpture that is not only an artistic highlight of the space but also a symbol of a new, modern approach to material design. The project was initiated by the Municipality of Komen, and its implementation was carried out by the Sežana Incubator, Sežana Higher Vocational College and the Sežana College of Materials Design – VSOM.
What is the Moon Gate?
The Moon Gate Komen sculpture is not merely an aesthetic element in the public space. Its design and execution reflect the key knowledge, skills, and values that students develop through their studies at VSOM.
The Moon Gate represents:
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the integration of design knowledge and material research,
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the integration of traditional stoneworking techniques with innovative approaches,
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responding to the specific needs of the local environment,
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sustainability-oriented interdisciplinary work by students and mentors.
A Symbol of the Breakthrough in Slovenian Design
The design and installation of the Moon Gate reinforce the role of design in public spaces. The project serves as an example of how study can transcend the boundaries of the classroom and create solutions that impact people’s daily lives. At VSOM, we encourage such collaborations, as we believe that project-based work in a real-world environment is crucial for developing the competencies of future creators. The Moon Gate is proof that our students are ready to contribute to the development of the profession and the identity of the space—both locally and more broadly within the European context.
Photo: archive of Inkubator Sežana
