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Danica Dakić, a visionary artist whose work has been profoundly shaped by her experiences during the Bosnian War and the siege of Sarajevo, continues to captivate
Art as a Bridge Between Personal and Public Narratives
Danica Dakić discusses how the Bosnian War influenced her art, exploring themes of identity, collectivity, and the tension between personal and public narratives through innovative media.
audiences with her exploration of identi-
ty, collectivity, and the interplay between personal and public narratives. An interview conducted with the artist for Mosaic Digest delves into the transformative impact of these experiences on her artistic vision and practice.
The war in Bosnia and the subsequent iso- lation from her homeland marked a pivotal shift in Dakić’s artistic journey. During this period, she grappled with the meaning and function of art, leading her to explore new themes, media, and methods. Her installation “Blaues Auge” (1996) exemplifies this shift, addressing the disconnection between perso- nal experience and media narratives. By col- laging thousands of newspaper photos and headlines on transparent foil, Dakić created a powerful visual barrier that symbolized
traditional media boundaries.
Dakić’s work is deeply informed by historical and social contexts, particularly in relation to identity and collectivity. While her personal experiences of war and displa- cement influence her exploration of these themes, her art speaks to universal expe- riences of mobility, migration, and living in multiple languages and cultures. Her work invites viewers to reflect on the perception of the global present and the role of the indi- vidual within larger societal structures.
The tension between individuality and col- lectivity is a recurring theme in Dakić’s art, as seen in the allegorical references to music and law in “Grand Organ.” She explores this tension on visual, acoustic, performative, and emotional levels, offering a nuanced perspective on the individual’s place within society. Her art challenges viewers to consider the complexities of identity and the interconnectedness of personal and collecti- ve experiences.
Danica Dakić’s artistic journey is a testa- ment to her resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. Her work continues to ins- pire and provoke thought, offering a power- ful commentary on the human condition and the ever-evolving narratives that shape our world. Through her innovative use of media and exploration of profound themes, Dakić has established herself as a leading voice in contemporary art, captivating audiences with her ability to transform personal experiences into universal narratives.
Dakić’s experiences during the Bosnian War reshaped her artistic vision, leading to new themes and media explorations.
the opacity of media representations during times of conflict. This work, and others like it, reflect her ongoing artistic engagement with the tension between personal and public narratives.
Dakić’s video installation “Grand Organ” (2010), commissioned for the Touched exhibition at St. George’s Hall in Liverpool, further exemplifies her innovative approach to art. Inspired by the hall’s majestic organ and neoclassical architecture, the installation explores themes of justice, performance, and music. By transforming the boys’ choir into an organ with human pipe voices, composer Bojan Vuletić’s sound design highlights
the interplay between the legal system and spectacle. The involvement of local choirs, including the Liverpool Signing Choir and the “Sparrows” of Sparrow Hall, undersco- res Dakić’s focus on polyphony and childho- od, creating a narrative that examines power dynamics and community.
Throughout her career, Dakić has experi- mented with various mediums, from painting to video, sound, and text. Her choice of medium is driven by the narrative or messa- ge she wishes to convey, with each medium offering a unique way to experience her images. As an “image maker,” Dakić belie- ves in the power of images to communicate complex ideas and emotions that transcend
“The war had a strong influence on my life and my art.”
Danica Dakić
Danica Dakić is a visionary artist whose profound insights and creativity transform personal experi- ences into universal narratives.
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