Annual Review of Slovenian Arts and Culture

Ljubljana, 9 December - Judging from the great variety of events, guest appearances and commendations earned abroad, Slovenia's artistic production showed a remarkable vitality in the past year. The only exception to this rule was film, given that only four features were shown at the latest Festival of Slovenian Film. Filmmakers placed the blame on the lack of funds, but officials say this is not the reason. Moreover, officials claim state funds for books, visual arts and the preservation of cultural heritage have increased. They say the EU promises a bright future for the sector as some 22 million euros a year should be available from all structural financial instruments in the 2007-2013 period for development projects, including cross-border programmes and inter-regional cooperation. Meanwhile, the vitality of the Slovenian arts scene is confirmed by President Janez Drnovsek himself, with the release of two personal growth books. The first was a best-seller in Slovenia and Croatia, while the second is expected to follow in its footsteps.