Meštrović Collection – exhibition – free admission
Ivan Meštrović (1883–1962) is one of the most important artists of all time, known for his monumental sculptures that combine traditional themes with modern artistic expression. His works often depict historical and mythological motifs, and are distinguished by their strong emotionality and dynamic forms.
The gallery is open to the public every evening from 10 July to 31 August. Opening hours are from 8pm to 10pm, and admission is free.
The gallery is located in the courtyard of the imposing, five-century-old Jakša Palace (Jakinovi dvori), in Kut.
The collection in the Jakša Palace in the Kut area of Vis contains around 30 original works by Meštrović, including statues and reliefs, which is an extremely valuable permanent exhibition. This collection is the legacy of his granddaughter Ivana Meštrović Stancomb, who founded the gallery and opened it to the public during the summer.
The works in this collection represent different phases of his creative work, and the gallery on Vis not only preserves the artistic heritage of Ivan Meštrović, but also promotes Croatian culture and history through the works of one of the greatest Croatian artists.
Ivana and her English husband Anthony Stancomb fell in love with Dalmatia back in 1970 during their honeymoon. After the end of the Homeland War, they came to Vis and were enchanted by the island.
They restored the dilapidated, three-story Jakin Palace so that they could stay there for four months during the summer, and opened a gallery in the courtyard to display a collection of Meštrović’s sculptures.
The historical setting of the Jakša Palace further emphasizes the importance and beauty of the exhibition. In 1944, it was the headquarters of the NOB for Dalmatia, and it was in the huge kitchen of the couple’s current summer home that Marshal Tito held meetings with British and American commanders.
Since it was the only suitable building to house the Austrian emperor, Franz Joseph stayed in the Jakša Palace in 1866 to celebrate the Battle of Vis.
