Your work explores self-identity and self-expression. What inspired you to delve into these deeply personal themes?

I have a strong interest in human nature—in understanding our emotions, aspirations, and desires, as well as our strengths and weaknesses. This stems, at least partly, from a journey of deep soul-searching and exploration. In 2022, after over 20 years of being fully dedicated to my furniture, interior, and object design business, I relocated to Montenegro. This was a new chapter in my life—and one that brought home plenty of introspection. Not only was I facing a personal crisis, but there was a global sense of upheaval, which led me to reflect and to literally rebuild myself and my life. Creativity became my therapy and lifeline, guiding me as I pieced together a new life in a foreign land. I tried to understand and realize myself within my family, the environment, and the society around me.

After developing a deeper understanding of my personality, I started studying other people. My intention was to find similarities, differences, and patterns in the way we act and the way we look. I often posited questions such as—How does someone’s self-expression affect their inner-self awareness? The same the other way around. I often wondered how someone’s self-identification affects what they manifest into the external world. The opportunity of illustrating this invisible relationship that we all have with our inner selves by giving it colour, shape, and form is something that deeply inspires me. I am thrilled to share it with those who appreciate my work.

How do you approach creating art that is both deeply personal and universally relatable?

My approach is based on my desire to make the invisible visible. Through various visual forms, I aim to transmit my innermost feelings to the viewer. This is done particularly through the line—which I consider to be a key component of my art. Thoughts, emotions, sounds, tastes, and sensations—they all have colours, shapes, and forms for me.

Based on my own experience, I create metaphorical images that reflect the surrounding reality, which is filled with dramatic events. I am also aware that these feelings are likely to be echoed by other people who resonate with them.

Hence, my intention is for the viewer to see their feelings through my work, and that this prompts them to realise and embrace their individuality—recognising their strengths, weaknesses, and everything that makes them unique.

Is there a specific piece that you feel best represents your exploration of self-identity?

I think the most striking example may be my piece "Beyond the Frame." This composition is based on contrasting images: a woman, who does not fit with the socially accepted figure standard, is standing surrounded by butterflies and dandelions.

Everything in this composition tells us that this cannot be possible. Whether to see it or not is the viewer's choice. The woman in the image does not see this; she imagines that there are no frames to conform to.

In her world, there are no stereotypes imposed by advertising and fashion. There is only her and her own assessments of her body and image in society. And she feels quite harmonious surrounded by butterflies and fluttering on a dandelion.

What advice would you give to artists looking to explore deeply personal themes in their work?

Be sincere and authentic. Be who you want to be, and don’t be afraid of showing who you really are. Share what’s in your soul. This means being vulnerable, but even if it sounds scary, it will lead you to the people who will genuinely appreciate what you have to offer.

What do you hope viewers take away from the inner struggles and reflections depicted in your art?

I aim to plant a seed of doubt in everyone who views my work. What you do with this doubt is entirely up to you.

When doubt takes root within us, it becomes a powerful catalyst for seeking truth. It compels us to ask: What is unsettling me? How can I release this tension? What is the right path forward? What choice is truly mine to make?

This process sparks a deep inner reflection, pushing us to uncover the origins of our emotions and to become aware of the external forces—opinions, stereotypes, prejudices—that disrupt our inner balance. Through this self-analysis and critical thinking, we begin to reconnect with our authentic selves. Doubt, once a source of anxiety, transforms into a driving force for personal growth and profound self-discovery.

What advice would you give other artists starting out on their journey?

I’d love to share the same advice I often give to my daughter, who dreams of becoming an artist: Just create what you want to create. The way you draw it, paint it, sculpt it, or assemble it—that is the right way. Don’t pay too much attention to the judgments of others, because no one can see it the way you do. Stay true to your vision, and trust in your unique perspective—it’s your greatest strength as an artist.