Academic Painter Explores Existence in New Exhibition in Montenegro

A new exhibition titled “Granice postojanja” (Boundaries of Existence) by Montenegrin artist Dalibor Četković has opened at the Center for Culture in Podgorica. The exhibition features a selection of twenty works from an extensive cycle called Antares, which consists of over one hundred paintings in various formats. Through this collection, Četković explores the delicate lines between the conscious and unconscious, the material and spiritual, and the known and unknown.

The exhibition aims to redefine boundaries not as points of division, but as spaces for encounter and transformation. In a recent interview with the newspaper Pobjeda, Četković delves into the philosophical dimensions of his work, the internal struggles that shape his creativity, and the challenges faced by artists in Montenegro.

Art as a Space for Transformation

When asked about the concept of boundaries in his artwork, Četković explained, “In my painting, boundaries are not lines of separation; they represent spaces for transformation and dialogue.” He describes the divide between the known and the unknown as not a solid barrier, but a field of transition where experiences transform from one form to another. This concept is reflected in his compositions, where interconnected elements create a rhythm, evoking a sense of movement and flow.

One standout piece in the exhibition is titled “Otac i sin” (Father and Son), featuring the mythological figures of Poseidon and Pegasus. According to Četković, these characters symbolize the transition between different levels of consciousness and reality. He elaborates, “Poseidon embodies the foundation of existence, representing the irrational and often destructive impulses that arise from the unconscious. On the boundary of existence, he serves as a reminder that our stability is subject to the tides of inner turmoil.”

The painting illustrates Poseidon seated and facing Pegasus, firmly grasping a trident that symbolizes navigation through emotional depths. Pegasus, born from a violent act, represents transformation and liberation, merging the earthly with the divine. This composition encapsulates the meeting point of Poseidon’s storm and Pegasus’s flight.

The Personal Touch in Artistic Expression

Another significant work, “Šapat neba” (Whisper of the Sky), was created shortly after Četković experienced the loss of his second parent and found its place on the cover of the exhibition catalog. He notes that personal experiences serve as a fundamental medium for his artistic expression. “My experiences permeate the creative process on multiple levels, transforming everyday situations and profound realizations into visual forms that eventually evolve into complex compositions,” he states.

Reflecting on the challenges of being an artist in Montenegro, Četković remarked, “In our country, art is primarily about survival.” He recalls his earlier statement that “art is living off art” and recognizes the discouragement it may bring to young artists. Nevertheless, he hopes that future generations will not be deterred by uncertainties as they navigate their artistic journeys.

Četković emphasizes the economic challenges faced by artists in Montenegro, where the financial status of citizens often leaves little room for what he calls “artistic luxury.” In developed countries, artists receive regular state support without the need for competitive grants, allowing them to focus on their creative endeavors. In contrast, many Montenegrin artists must supplement their income through other means, often sacrificing personal needs for their craft.

He describes the process of maintaining a career in painting as requiring immense discipline and sacrifice. “Most artists live in a state of economic uncertainty for years, often prioritizing the purchase of expensive materials and studio space over personal luxuries,” he explains. This reality often leads to social isolation, as artists spend countless hours alone in their studios, missing family gatherings and social events.

Despite these challenges, Četković believes that the existential burdens faced by artists can ignite a deeper inner strength, pushing them to survive regardless of societal treatment. He asserts that to thrive, artists must often take on roles beyond mere creators, needing to manage their careers and navigate legal frameworks to secure support and opportunities.

Ultimately, Četković reflects, “This is a Sisyphean task. It requires immense strength to remain free and authentic in an environment where art is often viewed as a hobby rather than a serious profession.”

Through “Granice postojanja,” Četković not only showcases his artistic vision but also opens a dialogue about the struggles and resilience of artists in Montenegro. The exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the boundaries of existence, encouraging a deeper understanding of the transformative power of art.