Exhibition "The Countenance of Suffering" by Nemanja Okiljević in Novi Sad
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Loading... - Sienna Gray
- 29 May 2023
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Tomorrow evening at 7:30 pm, the Art Salon of the Cultural Center of Novi Sad will unveil an extraordinary exhibition of paintings titled "The Countenance of Suffering," showcasing the remarkable talent of Nemanja Okiljević. This captivating installation will remain open to the public until June 12, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the artist's profound vision.
Renowned art historian Milena Nedeljković eloquently describes Nemanja Okiljević as an artist who draws inspiration from the depths of history. With a profound interest in his own ancestral origins, he has meticulously crafted a series of sketches, drawings, and paintings that pay homage to the revered figures of Serbian history. By skillfully blending techniques such as oil on canvas, acrylic, and ink, Okiljević has developed a distinctive style that unleashes the fervent spirit of Serbia's national identity. Nurturing his deep affection for his roots, he respectfully commemorates those who have fought for our homeland's freedom, a recurring theme that has captivated him for years. Imbued with the tumultuous narratives of Serbian history, particularly the arduous and compelling era of the Great War, Nemanja Okiljević has channeled his entire body of work into a cohesive exploration of this poignant subject. Within the young artist's creations, a juxtaposition of reality and surrealism, fantastical and illustrative elements, as well as expressions of both exuberance and melancholy, intertwine seamlessly.
Milena Nedeljković further elucidates that the anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures depicted on the canvas, within the thematic scope of war, often assume the roles of protagonists in the struggle. These figures possess a liberating energy that emanates from the confines of the artwork itself. Through the masterful use of cool tones and subtle contrasts, Okiljević captures the essence of Golgotha and the Easter of the Serbian people, evoking a profound sense of solemnity and rebirth.
Born in Skopje in 1987, Nemanja Okiljević completed his studies in wall painting at the Faculty of Applied Arts in Belgrade in 2011. Throughout his career, he has exhibited in six solo exhibitions and participated in numerous collective showcases in Serbia and France. Additionally, he has actively engaged in various painting colonies, projects, and artistic workshops, further enriching his artistic prowess. His illustrative works have graced the pages of esteemed magazines, and his murals adorn public buildings in Belgrade and Višegrad. Furthermore, his extensive body of work has garnered recognition and found its place in private collections both domestically and abroad. As a valued member of Ulupuds and a resident of Belgrade, Nemanja Okiljević continues to leave an indelible mark on the art world.
