Ibrahim Kodra – The Sea and Music remains open in Tirana until 23 November 2026, offering visitors an opportunity to see 41 works by one of Albania’s internationally recognised artists.
Opened on 23 September in the former Dajti Hotel, now owned by the Bank of Albania, on Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, the exhibition is curated by Anila Mema. It takes place in the year marking two decades since the painter’s death.
41 works and a portrait of the artist
The selection features works dating from 1947 to 1999, drawn from the Ibrahim Kodra House-Museum collection in Milan and private collections. Paintings are presented alongside photographs, documents, publications and personal objects, extending the exhibition beyond the works on canvas.
Marine motifs, boats, musicians and instruments form its thematic core. Geometric shapes and stylised figures distinguish Kodra’s visual language, developed through his engagement with Cubism and European modernism.
The sea as memory, music as part of life
For an artist born in Ishëm and trained in Italy, the sea connects with a life lived between two shores. The curatorial concept interprets it as a space of travel and memory, while music introduces rhythm and movement into the compositions.
Kodra’s relationship with music extended beyond painting: singing and musical instruments were personal passions. The exhibition’s documentary material helps illuminate this aspect of his life. Illustrated publications also draw attention to his engagement with literature.
The ambition for a permanent museum
Curator Anila Mema has described the exhibition as part of a broader ambition to establish a permanent Ibrahim Kodra museum in Tirana and bring his artistic legacy closer to Albanian audiences.
Kodra was born on 22 April 1918 and developed most of his career in Milan after studying at the Brera Academy. He died on 7 February 2006. Albania awarded him the Honor of the Nation distinction in 1996.
Visitor information
Dates: 23 September – 23 November 2026.
Venue: Bank of Albania, former Dajti Hotel premises, Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, Tirana.
Curator: Anila Mema.
The official exhibition announcement does not specify visiting hours or admission arrangements. Visitors should confirm these before travelling.
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