Bosnian Art in the Heart of New York: “Contemporary Bosnia” Exhibition Opens

New York, February 11, 2025 – A grand opening ceremony was held at the Jutta Gallery in New York for the exhibition Contemporary Bosnia, which showcases the works of seven Bosnian and Herzegovinian artists. This exhibition brings together the works of seven exceptional artists from Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering a unique fusion of tradition, modernity, and universal messages that transcend borders. The opening was attended by numerous distinguished guests, including ambassadors to the United Nations, representatives of cultural institutions, and art enthusiasts from around the world.

This cultural event was inaugurated by Dr. Zlatko Lagumdžija, the Permanent Representative of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Nations. In his inspiring speech, Dr. Lagumdžija emphasized the importance of art as a bridge between cultures and nations, highlighting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s role as a country rich in creativity and a spirit of pluralism.

The Contemporary Bosnia exhibition features works by Rebeka Abdagić, Rikardo Druškić, Amer Hadžić, Denis Haračić, Lea Jerlagić, Azra Subašić, and Alisa Teletović. Each of these artists brings a unique approach and vision, exploring themes such as human existence, the impact of technology, tradition, and contemporary social challenges.

• Rebeka Abdagić explores the depths of the human subconscious through her paintings, using technical precision and intense colors to create visual metaphors with a powerful impact.
• Rikardo Druškić combines digital technology with traditional painting, creating surreal worlds that examine the interplay between nature and technology.
• Amer Hadžić takes a sarcastic approach in critiquing modern society and the absurdity of progress, using the symbolism of the traditional Bosnian house as a foundation for his works.
• Denis Haračić investigates the inner world of individuals shaped by mass media, revealing the deep contradictions of contemporary times.
• Lea Jerlagić, inspired by Tantric and Taoist teachings, employs Chinese woodcut techniques to explore composition and visual media possibilities.
• Azra Subašić creates narratives about the cyclical nature of life through abstract expressionism, using a play of light and color.
• Alisa Teletović establishes an intimate dialogue with nature in her works, exploring the dynamics of colors, shapes, and emotions.
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Drawing inspiration from the cult film The Magnificent Seven, which was itself inspired by Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai, Lagumdžija highlighted how artists, much like the heroes of the film, are the heroes of our time—individuals who change the world through their creativity and vision.

“Today, I am proud to be part of this moment, where seven exceptional artists from Bosnia and Herzegovina present their work to New York. They are our ‘Magnificent Seven,’ modern representatives of the rich cultural heritage and creativity that emanates from our country,” Lagumdžija said.

Lagumdžija also emphasized the significance of Sarajevo, a city that has always been a symbol of tolerance, diversity, and creativity. “When Pope Francis visited Sarajevo ten years ago, he called it ‘the Jerusalem of Europe.’ That description perfectly captures the spirit of our city—a place where cultures, religions, and ideas intersect. Sarajevo has always been a creative hub, and these artists are its ambassadors,” he noted.

In his speech, Lagumdžija drew a parallel between great artists of the past, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt, and contemporary artists whose works are featured in the exhibition. “When we look back at history, we remember great artists, but not the politicians or rulers who lived in their time. Art is what endures—it is the legacy that remains,” he said. He emphasized that hundreds of years from now, people will remember Rebeka, Rikardo, Amer, Denis, Lea, Azra, and Alisa, while the names of today’s politicians and global leaders will be forgotten.

The exhibition was made possible thanks to the dedication of Amin Kujović, an art collector and enthusiast who wanted to bring a part of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s rich cultural heritage to New York. “This exhibition is my way of bringing a breath of my old home to my new home in New York. I believe the works of these artists will leave a lasting impression on every visitor,” Kujović stated.

Art as a Universal Language

Dr. Lamija Neimarlija, who authored the exhibition catalog, emphasized that the works presented in Contemporary Bosnia reflect the spirit of pluralism and openness that characterizes Bosnian and Herzegovinian culture. “These artists invite us to reflect on the values we share and to recognize beauty in diversity,” Neimarlija said.

The exhibition will be open to the public from February 8 to 15 at the Jutta Gallery, offering visitors the opportunity to experience artworks that speak more than a thousand words. Alongside the exhibition, a concert by Bosnian and Herzegovinian guitarist Đani Šehu was organized, whose music further enriched the experience of this unique cultural event.

“Contemporary Bosnia” is not just an exhibition—it is a story of beauty, diversity, and the power of art to connect people from all corners of the world. As Zlatko Lagumdžija emphasized that the Artists are the ones who will be remembered, while the names of politicians and rulers will fade into the dust of time.

The Contemporary Bosnia exhibition will be open to the public from February 8 to 15 at the Jutta Gallery in New York. Visitors also had the opportunity to enjoy a performance by Bosnian and Herzegovinian guitarist Đani Šehu, whose music added to the atmosphere of the evening. This event was not only a celebration of Bosnian and Herzegovinian art but also a powerful message of unity and the strength of creativity that transcends all boundaries.

Speech Dr Zlatko Lagumdzija – Art Exibition NY Contemporary Bosnia