We are proud to conclude the first cycle of the Queer Art Hub program, a platform designed as a space of support and development for young queer artists. The program was launched by the Domino association to create a safe and stimulating environment for the exploration of queer identity, culture and art through artistic work and mutual exchange.
During March, April and May, six selected artists developed their projects with the mentorship of experienced professionals in the field of art and activism. Through workshops, conversations and independent work, each of them shaped a unique work of art that contributes to the diversity and visibility of queer creativity in Croatia.
The program participants were:
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Karla Kralj
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Karlo Štefanek
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Lada Franulović
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Mateja Šekelja
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Viktor Konstantinović
Lada Franulović’s project is still in development:
“The project is still in the editing phase. It has not been completed or presented. What currently exists is a fifteen-minute draft that is just an introduction. Over the past months, thanks to the Queer Art Hub, the project has begun to materialize and become clearer in its concept and scope. I have also added a photograph that hints at the thematic direction of the work – as a return and a reconsideration of one’s own identity.”
Through the program, Mateja Šekelja realized a work that incorporated a participatory moment with the audience:
“I’m glad I met the artists and mentors who participated in the Queer Art Hub. The experience of leading the ‘Queering the Art’ workshop was especially important to me. The reactions of the people who took the stickers at Zagreb Pride and Pula Pride were great – I loved watching their smiles as they chose them. What are the plans for the finished stickers? I guess we’ll find out together!”
Karla Kralj held four-week dance workshops in the space of KNAP, Karlo Štefanek presented his project 139 Letters to Noa Marlo at MaMi as part of Queer Zagreb, while Viktor Konstantinović presented his play G in the black hall of AKC Medika at the same festival:
“I am glad that I have a community where my concept was heard and supported by Domino, given the
fact that this was my first baby that I was putting out to the world, I feel proud of my team and myself,
for making my dream come true.”
The Queer Art Hub program opened a space for young artists to connect and exchange ideas, while at the same time providing concrete conditions for the development of queer artistic practices. Through various formats – from workshops and public presentations to informal exchanges – participants inspired each other and built a network that, hopefully, will not end with this cycle.
We thank all participants for their courage, creativity and energy, as well as the mentors who supported the process with their expertise and openness.
The program is co-financed by the City of Zagreb , and the work of the Domino Association is supported by the Kultura Nova Foundation and the National Foundation for the Development of Civil Society .
