University of Aveiro unveils the 'Glossário' to celebrate 50 years with a connection to ceramics

To close its 50th anniversary celebrations, the University of Aveiro inaugurated a commemorative totem adjacent to Rua da Pega, duly named “Glossário”.

Located at Ponto 50, this 6 metre high artistic installation presents 4 facets which pay homage to this regions iconic elements – Estuary, Salt, Wind and Light.

A selection of 21 words, which were voted by the community as representing the values and memories from the five decades of history of the university, were inserted on these facets.

These words were subsequently transposed on 2500 ceramic tiles in 14×14 size, some of which were painted in a community involved session.

The design for this project was conceived by Estúdio Pedrita in partnership with the artistic intervention platform Mistaker Maker. The majority of the tiles were provided and fired by Aleluia Ceramics.

Next to the ‘Glossário’ totem, a time capsule was placed with the intention of creating a  “Line of Affections” with future communities.

Within this vacuumed chamber were placed audio messages form the academic community, letters from the various organic and investigation departments, and a message from the current rector to his future sucessor.

The opening of this capsule is planned for 2073, year in which the University of Aveiro celebrates its centenary. At this time, the future community may be able to share a perspective about our present, creating an emotional and institutional link between the generations.