Honoring Vojo Stanić: A Year Since the Artistic Icon’s Passing

One year has passed since the death of Vojo Stanić (1924–2024), a prominent figure in contemporary Montenegrin art. His creative spirit shaped an entire century, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural history of Montenegro. As the world reflects on his legacy, it becomes increasingly clear that Vojo’s artistry, character, and wit have created a heritage that transcends time, one that Montenegro will carry as a lasting obligation and pride.

Stanić’s quiet and dignified passing at the age of 101 marked the end of an extraordinary life journey. Yet, it also heralded a new type of presence, one that continues to be felt through his paintings, sculptures, wisdom, and unique Mediterranean sensibility. In remembrance of the first anniversary of his death, we spoke with fellow artists Rajko Todorović Todor, Andro Martinović, and Bosiljka Bakočević-Delić to gain insight into how they view Stanić’s life and work from this distance.

Todor reflected on Stanić’s significant impact, suggesting that his influence extends far beyond the Montenegrin cultural scene, which has unfortunately suffered from stagnation in the visual arts for over two decades. “Great figures like Vojo, Hokni, Rustan, and Kifer would only disrupt the idyllic stagnation of our cultural landscape—blindness and autism within our cultural institutions,” he noted. “While I cannot say how many true followers Vojo has today, it seems we are left with merely epigones and forgers whom nobody appreciates. People like Vojo are sorely missed, but it is good that we had them.”

Martinović echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the enduring legacy of Stanić’s work. “There is no doubt about Vojo Stanić’s legacy, and his biological end has not changed that in any way. Artists are often celebrated only after their death, sometimes reaching true adoration. Vojo did not need to leave for that to happen; his paintings and wisdom captivated many, especially those of us who are the best among us.”

He recounted a recent visit to Herceg Novi, where he noted the changes in the community, including the management’s struggle to engage with such a monumental artist. “Even though you could not see him often in his beloved place in the world during his last years, you could feel that miraculous, indomitable energy behind the walls of the house where, like an all-seeing eye, the window of his studio was open. Through that window flowed the Mediterranean and all the Montenegrin hills. From there, Vojo continues to watch,” Martinović shared.

Bakočević-Delić offered a poignant perspective, asserting that the artistic works left behind by the painter are, in fact, pieces of his soul. “Vojo may have physically departed, but his painting continues to live and shape the Montenegrin art scene. His interviews are incredibly educational and inspiring, easily found online. I often return to them. Vojo’s interviews are lessons not only for understanding painting but also for comprehending life and human nature. His statement, ‘I do not believe in changing people, and I do not believe in people who change. A person improves and becomes better or worse, but always remains true to themselves,’ has deeply resonated with me.”

Her reflections highlight how Stanić’s philosophical insights about humanity are vividly present in his artwork. “He has left an indelible mark, especially in his beloved Herceg Novi,” she added.

As Montenegro continues to honor the memory of Vojo Stanić, it is clear that his influence remains vibrant. His works and the conversations they inspire reflect a legacy that will endure, inviting new generations to explore the depths of his artistic vision and the profound truths he conveyed through his creations.