Press Release
Romanian-American University hosted the photography exhibition “Gauchos/Peasants” by Argentine Artist Juan Cruz Olivieri
The Romanian-American University, through its Center for Latin American Studies, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Argentine Republic in Bucharest, organized the photography exhibition “Gauchos/Peasants” by Argentine artist Juan Cruz Olivieri, held between April 1 and May 19, 2026.
The exhibited works were highly appreciated during a cultural event dedicated to photographic art and intercultural dialogue, which brought together students, faculty members, representatives of the Romanian-American University and the Embassy of the Argentine Republic, as well as guests interested in the culture and traditions of Latin America. The exhibition’s closing event took place in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Carlos Alejandro Poffo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Argentine Republic to Bucharest, and Associate Professor Mihai Olariu, PhD, President of the Senate of the Romanian-American University.
The exhibition presented a selection of images dedicated to the Argentine rural universe and gaucho culture, an emblematic symbol of the South American pampas. Through a sensitive and authentic artistic approach, Juan Cruz Olivieri captures not only the faces of his subjects, but also the spirit of a community deeply connected to tradition, nature, and values passed down from generation to generation.
Costel Negricea, Ph.D. Habil. Professor, Rector of the Romanian-American University, stated on this occasion: “The Romanian-American University supports cultural initiatives that transform international dialogue into a living experience of knowledge, bringing together academic communities and cultural spaces that may seem far apart. The Gauchos/Peasants exhibition reminds us that authentic education is also built through encounters with the memory, sensitivity, and values of others, strengthening openness toward diversity, cooperation, and intercultural understanding.”
In his speech, H.E. Carlos Alejandro Poffo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Argentine Republic to Bucharest, highlighted the cultural ties between Romania and Argentina and the role of universities in strengthening them: “We chose to organize this exhibition dedicated to the gauchos because this subject represents a common point between our societies. Both Romania and Argentina have an essential agricultural component deeply rooted in history. It is fascinating to see how two groups separated by great geographical distances arrive at similar ways of life, in their relationship with traditions, nature, and the values passed on to new generations. It is an invitation to dialogue between two agricultural cultures proud of their origins.”
In turn, Mihai Olariu, Ph.D. Associate Professor, President of the Senate of the Romanian-American University, emphasized: “This exhibition represents an authentic bridge between Argentine rural traditions and Romanian cultural values. Through art and culture, the university becomes a space for dialogue and connection between communities located thousands of kilometers apart.”
During his visit, His Excellency Mr. Carlos Alejandro Poffo also delivered a lecture dedicated to bilateral relations between Romania and Argentina, attended by over 100 students of the Romanian-American University. The dialogue with students highlighted the cultural and historical ties between the two countries, rooted in their shared Latin heritage, as well as the mutual interest in strengthening academic, cultural, and economic cooperation. Topics discussed also included the evolution of Romanian-Argentine diplomatic relations, the appreciation enjoyed by Romanian literature in Argentina, and opportunities for developing partnerships in areas of common interest. The recent 35th anniversary of the Romanian-American University was also acknowledged. The meeting generated significant interest among students, who appreciated its interactive nature and the valuable insights shared, expressing their wish for similar events to be organized in the future.
The organization of the exhibition reconfirms the Romanian-American University’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity, international academic cooperation, and educational projects dedicated to the Latin American space. These initiatives reflect the activity of the Center for Latin American Studies, established during the current academic year with the aim of bringing students closer to the culture, traditions, and contemporary realities of Latin American countries..
About Juan Cruz Olivieri
Born in 1980 in Zárate, Buenos Aires Province, Juan Cruz Olivieri discovered his passion for photography in 2012, later developing an artistic universe deeply influenced by childhood memories and the journeys he took with his father through the Argentine countryside. In photographic series such as “Gauchos” and “Silent Inhabitants”, the artist explores rural life through images filled with emotion and authenticity.
Referring to his artistic approach, Juan Cruz Olivieri stated: “In my work, I strive to create intimate photography, moving away from the role of the intrusive outsider to become a confidant in a story told through light and shadow. Each photograph is free of ornamental pretension, and its magnetic power lies in the determined way gauchos position themselves before the camera — revealing more than just their faces: the living soul of the life they embrace.”.
In 2025, Juan Cruz Olivieri was named “Photographer of the Week” by the international platform All About Photo.com, an important recognition of the value and originality of his artistic work.
Photo Gallery
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About the Romanian-American University
Romanian-American University is a private, non-profit higher education institution of public interest, recognized for its academic performance and its consistent support for students’ professional and personal development. It is one of the leading private universities in Romania, with over 50,000 graduates in its 35 years of activity. Established in 1991, the University promotes the educational values of the American higher education system, grounded in the rich traditions of Romanian education.
Information about academic programs, student benefits, and the admission calendar is available at www.rau.ro.
