Marija Srećković Karanfilović
The art of human connection
Art isn’t just something you look at; it’s an ongoing process of thinking, discovering, and looking at how the artist connects with the world and themselves. This is how my journey as an artist starts, showing you the world through my eyes.
Locked , 120cm x 150cm, oil on canvas, 2008.
Unveiling the human bond
My work focuses on the simple yet complicated interactions between people. It's all about looking beyond the surface to understand how we relate to one another. Additionally, it examines the roles individuals play within the network of relationships and their unique positions in that dynamic flow.
Crack 3 (detail) 2023.->
Evoking curiosity, sparking thought
I make art that resonates with people. I want to spark your curiosity, inspire creativity, and encourage you to think. This collection is for anyone ready to see things more clearly, feel things more deeply, and really connect with their own experiences.
Nurage, 30cm x 30cm, mosaic, 2024.
Mosaics
I was drawn to the mosaic technique by the captivating beauty of the varied textures in broken stone and the harmonious rhythm of the tesserae.
Mosaic create a dialogue between the permanence of stone and the fluidity of light, bridging the gap between an ancient architectural legacy and modern abstraction.
Collage and assemblage
Unwinding stereotypes, collage, assemblage, ink on panel board, 20cm x 20cm, 2023.
<- To peep, digital graphic, 2025.
Beyond observation: think and grow
What remains when we strip away immediate necessities, desires, and emotions like spite and self-love? What do we discover when we achieve complete freedom? ? When we separate all the grays into black and white? Are there traces of memory, learning, growth? Where does imagination fit into this landscape? Are we more fascinated by new things and their beauty than by the depth and charm of what came before?
Tears
Inspired by observing the dry residue of tears under a microscope, I created the tear watercolor cycle. I found that tears—emotional or mechanical—possess unique structures, guiding my color choices rather than the emotions involved. This project deepens my exploration of water’s symbolism and human connections, as tears, like saltwater, symbolize our inner sea, reflecting emotional releases through interactions.
I aim to inspire reflection on our world and relationships. Ice and dried tears represent stasis, emphasizing our need for change.
Through color, rhythm, and repetition, I evoke human states and experiences.
These works are primarily two-dimensional, with actions on the surface and depth suggested for exploration.
Look at me, mosaic, 10cm x 10cm, 2024.
Series of works: aquarelle, 70cm x 50cm, 2023.
Ice
Ice, oil on canvas
At first glance, ice might seem like a mere symbol of our planet's melting surfaces. However, when we look deeper, it becomes a powerful metaphor for the complexities of interpersonal relationships, contrasting sharply with the retreating glaciers. Frozen water signifies stagnation in our connections, representing a pause, a trap, or a period of waiting. But what are we truly waiting for? Why do we hesitate to share, learn, grow, change, and support one another? Throughout my artistic journey, I've developed a distinctive system of symbolism and iconography that continues to evolve. A significant focus has been the cracks in the ice, guiding my exploration along this compelling path further.
Under ice 1 , oil on canvas
Above the ordinary
My work reflects how we learn and think by taking in and understanding information. There's also a basic human need to look at other people's lives and explore what lies beyond what we already know. This often pushes us past what's considered "allowed."
Light guide
Moon in a balloon, oil on canvas, 100cm x 80cm
Grinding
In this collection, the artworks encompass various drawing techniques, including pencil, ink, colored pencils, colored inks, sepia, charcoal, mixed media, collage, and tempera. Most of these pieces were created between 2010 and 2016.
The exhibition explores the contemporary human experience, reflecting how many cultural and human values are being "ground down" in different ways. This exhibition serves as my personal critique of current events, examining how they impact us and transform our identities. A central theme in this collection is the question of permanence — specifically, the fragility of individuality and our tendency to adapt and reshape our essence.
Path, Journey, Connection (1995–2008)
A retrospective look at the evolution of my work during the first decade of my practice. This video captures the transitions from my MFA studies to my international exhibitions, exploring the recurring themes of paths, human traces, and the journey of the material.
Drawings
Drawings serve as personal notes, capturing thoughts and reminders in a unique way.
Here are a few of my creations, showcasing a blend of both analog and digital techniques.
For me, drawing is a direct connection to the subject, a true expression of my thoughts.
Intimate cartography
Exploring New Artistic Media
In today's digital landscape, new art media are inevitable. These forms use technology to create unique works that interact with audiences in different ways than traditional media, thereby providing both new insights and new ways of expression. As we explore digital art, the fusion of new media is paving the way for a new creative era, encouraging artists and audiences to rethink what art can be.
Never-ending sailing
digital collage, GIF
Domino circle
digital graphics , GIF