UPDATE: A groundbreaking exhibition titled “Ad Iuventas” featuring 15 young Montenegrin artists opens tomorrow, October 16, 2023, at 19:00, at the Crnogorska akademija nauka i umjetnosti (CANU). This urgent event aims to highlight the vibrant creativity of emerging talents and offers a significant cash prize of €2,000 for the best artwork.
This exhibition is not just an art display; it represents a vital platform for young artists to showcase their work, encouraging exploration and innovation in contemporary themes. The participating artists include notable names such as Jovana Vujović, Milica Živković, Stefan Delić, and Srđa Dragović, among others.
The professional jury, composed of members from CANU’s Department of Arts, will determine the award recipient, further validating the creative potential of Montenegro’s youth. According to Pavle Pejović, head of the CANU Gallery, this initiative is part of a broader commitment to support young creators and encourage their authentic expressions through art.
Pejović expressed,
“This exhibition opens the doors of the Academy wide for young artists, marking a transition towards regular engagement with the next generation of creators.”
He emphasized the importance of a continuous focus on youth, akin to the Academy’s long-standing dedication to science.
The exhibit revolves around the central concept of “4 / Meet,” as explained by curator Maša Vlaović. This theme encapsulates four encounters among four artists, each exploring personal and societal issues through diverse mediums. The exhibition promises to provoke discussions about identity, gender roles, and the individual’s place in a fast-paced society.
Vlaović stated,
“The exhibition invites the audience to reflect critically on their roles within the community while discovering new avenues for personal experience transformation.”
This powerful message resonates in a time when societal pressures often overshadow individual voices.
The exhibition will remain open until the end of February 2026, providing ample opportunity for the public to engage with the thought-provoking works. It serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic freedom and exploration amid contemporary challenges.
Curators like Svetlana Racanović and Ljiljana Karadžić also highlighted the choice of artists based on their unique approaches and youthful enthusiasm. Their selections reflect a belief in the transformative power of art, aiming to inspire the audience and encourage a shift in perception of contemporary artistic expression.
Pejović noted that similar exhibitions should be organized every three years to maintain high presentation quality and avoid repetitive displays. He affirmed CANU’s commitment to nurturing young talents, stating,
“We will ensure quality presentations, including a representative catalog and established awards for outstanding works.”
In a world that demands rapid change and adaptation, “Ad Iuventas” stands as a beacon of hope and creativity, inviting audiences to engage with the future of Montenegrin art. This event is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of contemporary creativity. Don’t miss your chance to witness the transformation of young artists making their mark in the art world!
