Ermal Kovaçi is 18 years old, a student studying to become a civil engineer. Ermal is from a place called Has in northern Albania, but due to his studies he is currently staying in Tirana. Ermal is studying at the Polytechnic University of Tirana which is known as one of the best universities in Albania.
Ermal’s connection with art is personal as he has been painting since he was little, and he continues to paint since it brings him peace. Civil engineering brings him closer to art as he has to realise projects or architectural works that are becoming more unique every day since the art world is getting involved.
Ermal’s uncle presented at KArtsCon in 2022, and asked him to come along. He attended #KArtsCon2023 on his own, and left feeling very connected to and inspired by art. Since then, he has decided to attend KArtsCon annually. Last year, Ermal met Krisilda Kastrati at #KArtsCon and decided to work with Krisilda.
We are looking forward to welcoming you to explore and discuss the deep relationship between art and architecture.
Presentation: Future Forms: The Art Yet to Be
Co-presenting with Krisilda Kastrati.
Art has always been closely connected with everything – especially architecture – shaping how societies express culture, creativity, and human experience. Beyond its practical function, architecture serves as a canvas for artistic expression, where form, materials, light, and space come together to create meaningful and inspiring environments. Throughout history, artistic elements have been included in architecture to enhance beauty, tell cultural stories, and create emotional impact. From the detailed carvings of ancient temples to the abstract shapes of modern buildings, the connection between architecture and art continues to evolve more and more, showing the endless possibilities of creativity in design.
In the past, art and architecture were often combined in the same structure but with different forms. Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans decorated their buildings with sculptures, paintings, and reliefs to tell religious and mythological stories. Gothic cathedrals, with their stained glass windows, tall arches, and detailed facades, are perfect examples of how art can be combined with everything even different buildings, in exterior and interior design. Similarly, Renaissance architecture used balance, perspective, and decoration to represent beauty and intelligence.
In modern and contemporary architecture, art is no longer just decoration but an essential part of design. Architects such as Antoni Gaudí, Frank Gehry, and Zaha Hadid have transformed architecture into an artistic form, breaking the boundaries between structure and creativity. Gaudí’s Sagrada Família combines organic shapes and detailed designs, making the entire building a living artwork. Gehry’s unique, flowing structures challenge traditional architecture, creating movement and emotion in his designs. Hadid’s futuristic, fluid buildings show how digital technology has opened new possibilities for artistic architecture.
Beyond individual buildings, public spaces and city landscapes also reflect the connection between architecture and art. Murals, sculptures, and artistic installations bring creativity into urban environments, making streets and buildings part of an interactive artistic experience. This integration helps communities connect with their surroundings in a more meaningful way.
This abstract explores the deep relationship between art and architecture, showing that architecture is not just about function—it is also a powerful way to tell stories and express creativity and without art, it would not be as interesting. Art is limitless, shaped by new technologies, forms and creative visions yet to be explored.