The "New Era" project delves into the contemporary art scene in the Western Balkans, exploring its relationship with EU colleagues and fostering an artistic dialogue on pressing societal challenges such as ecology, climate, and social change. Over 16 months, the project brought together 12 selected artists to produce impactful artwork showcased in three exhibitions across partner institutions.
These exhibitions were complemented by panel discussions featuring key art critics and theoreticians from both the Western Balkans and the EU. The discursive programs aim to offer a fresh analytical perspective on the region’s art scene and encourage critical reflection on contemporary issues. To broaden its outreach, the project included a series of podcast shows with prominent figures from the artistic community.
“This initiative connects artists and critics across borders, sparking a dialogue that transcends the gallery space,” remarked one of the participating artists. “The inclusion of ecological and social themes ensures the project resonates with diverse audiences, inspiring both reflection and action.”
The results of the project, including insights from the panel discussions and exhibitions, were published in a representative volume, a catalogue summarizing the whole project. This publication serves as a scientific basis for future research on contemporary art in the region, further solidifying the project's lasting impact.
The "New Era" project targeted various layers of the artistic community, including artists, art critics, theoreticians, cultural journalists, and students of art academies or humanities. Direct beneficiaries include 12 artists and collectives who received opportunities for mobility, production, and regional presentation. Indirectly, the project engaged over 200 curators, theorists, and critics, alongside the general public attending exhibitions and educational events.
“Through this initiative, we were aiming to empower regional artists by providing platforms for co-production, visibility, and engagement,” said one of the project organizers. “The traveling exhibitions and accompanying programs were designed to amplify their voices and foster artistic mobility.”
The "New Era" project embodies the mission to enhance cultural and creative sectors in the Western Balkans. By bridging regional and EU perspectives, it not only strengthens artistic ties but also raises awareness of critical societal issues through creative expression.
Implementing partners of the “New Era: Artistic Discourses on Social and Climate Changes” project: Museum of Contemporary Art of Republika Srpska (BIH) and Museum of Contemporary Art of Vojvodina (SER).
New Era: Artistic Discourses on Social and Climate Changes is supported by the British Council through “Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans” project funded by the European Union. CC4WBs aims to foster dialogue in the Western Balkans by enhancing the cultural and creative sectors for increased socio-economic impact.