Art lovers have plenty of reasons to rejoice as the new year kicks off with impressive cultural events in the Croatian capital
1. Vlaho Bukovac at the Klovićevi Dvori gallery
One of the key figures in the history of Croatian art, Vlaho Bukovac was a pioneer, a mentor, and a leader to the younger generation of artists that followed. Born in Cavtat in 1855, Bukovac has been painting since his early childhood, going on to study at the École des beaux-arts in Paris in 1877. He's considered the founder of modern art in Croatia, and is best known for his portraits and large-scale history paintings. The Klovićevi Dvori gallery is paying tribute to the iconic master with a tripartite exhibition series inspired by several distinctive periods in his career: Paris, Zagreb, and Prague. The first part, titled Vlaho Bukovac 1/3 - Paris Era, 1877-1893, is dedicated to his life and work in the French capital and his gradual rise to fame on the international scene. The exhibition opened on January 18, and will remain on display until March 11, 2018.
2. Zdenko Bašić at the Klovićevi Dvori gallery
In case you decide to go see Bukovac at any point in the coming week, make sure to stick around and pay some love to Zdenko Bašić. A renowned illustrator, Bašić could also be described as a visual magician and a remarkable storyteller; his photomanipulations, illustrations and installations inspired by mythical creatures and local legends are nothing short of enchanting. One part gentle and lighthearted, one part dark and macabre, the mindblowing display is a must-see for adults and children alike. The exhibition closes on January 28.
3. Stipan Tadić at Lauba House for People and Art
Starting from January 18, Lauba is presenting Croatian Mountains, the latest themed series created by Stipan Tadić. While the artist is known for his humorous approach and social commentary, he's forgoing the sarcastic undertone this time, instead focusing on the aesthetic experience of monumental natural scenery. The series is composed of ten works depicting Croatian mountains and hills, all of them representing the author's personal impressions of nature. The exhibition is open until February 3, 2018.
4. Voice of the Artist / I Am the Mouth at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MSU)
The MSU is presenting a selection of works from the Art Collection Telekom which focuses on contemporary artists originating from Central and Eastern Europe, a region which has yet to define its identity in the global context. Inspired by a video piece created by the Polish artist Agnieszka Polska, the title refers to the voices of artists who are calling for new social and political structures in their respective countries of origin. The artworks on display are to be seen as the 'mouth' of the entire generations which is actively trying to shape its own future. You can see the exhibition until March 18 - read more here and see some photos of the collection here.
5. Akiko Sato: Draw Attention! at the Museum of Arts and Crafts
The latest artist-in-residence programme devised by the Museum of Arts and Crafts presents Akiko Sato, a Japanese artist who set up a temporary studio in the museum spaces. Sato is spending her days strolling around the museum, drawing inspiration from the works on display and sketching some of the featured motives and objects. When you buy the ticket, you'll be provided with a pen and paper: pick out a motif that sparks your interest, create a work of your own, and hand it in at the reception before you leave. Not willing to hand it over? Snap a pic and put it on Instagram with #muodrawattention - read more here.
