Davorin Kralj defended his doctoral dissertation on Maribor's Forma viva at Alma Mater Europaea University with distinction, thus earning his third doctorate, each time in a different scientific field.
After earning doctorates in chemistry or chemical technology and economics, he further advanced his academic path with a doctorate in the humanities. His achievement is an outstanding example of connecting the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts.
From chemistry and economics to the humanities
Before completing his doctorate at Alma Mater, Davorin Kralj earned a doctorate in chemistry or chemical technology at the University of Maribor and in economics at the University of Ljubljana.
He obtained his third doctorate in the doctoral study programme in Humanities at Alma Mater Europaea University, which promotes interdisciplinary research and the integration of different scientific and cultural perspectives.
Maribor Forma Viva through the prism of brutalism and public art
In his dissertation titled Concrete, Brutalism, and the International Symposium of Sculptors Forma Viva in Maribor 1967–1986, he explored the significance of Maribor’s Forma Viva for the development of brutalism and public sculptural art.
Maribor Forma Viva left the city with 19 concrete sculptures between 1967 and 1986, placed in public space. Today, they represent an important part of Maribor’s artistic heritage and testify to international artistic cooperation.
He prepared the dissertation under the mentorship of Assist. Prof. Dr. Tomislav Vignjević and the co-mentorship of Dr. Marijan Drev. The committee evaluated the dissertation and its defense with distinction, awarding the grade 10.
An achievement that connects scientific fields
Davorin Kralj’s third doctorate reflects research curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning. His academic path highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research, which enables new perspectives on science, art, and cultural heritage.
We sincerely congratulate Davorin Kralj on the successful defense of his doctoral dissertation and this exceptional academic achievement!
* Photo: Screenshot from the programme Dober večer, TV Slovenija (23 April 2016).
