Artist Dalibor Četković Explores Consciousness in New Exhibit

A new solo exhibition titled “Granice postojanja” by Montenegrin artist Dalibor Četković showcases a selection of twenty works from his extensive series “Antares,” which consists of over one hundred paintings. The exhibit, hosted at the Center for Culture in Podgorica, invites viewers to reflect on the boundaries between consciousness and the unconscious, the material and the spiritual, as well as the known and the unknown.

Četković’s innovative approach emphasizes the idea of boundaries not as barriers, but as spaces for transformation and dialogue. In an interview with Pobjeda, he elaborated on how this philosophy translates into his artistic language. “In my paintings, boundaries do not serve as lines of division; they represent spaces of transformation and dialogue,” he explained. “The line between the known and the unknown is not a solid barrier but a transitional field where experiences transform from one form to another.”

One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is “Otac i sin,” a large-scale artwork depicting the mythological figures Poseidon and Pegasus. For Četković, this composition holds significant metaphysical weight. He describes Poseidon and Pegasus not merely as mythological characters but as archetypes representing transitions between different levels of awareness and reality. “Poseidon embodies the foundation of existence, lying beneath the surface of the conscious mind,” Četković stated. “He symbolizes the raw, unconscious energy that transforms into elevated, conscious creation.”

The artist also discussed his deeply personal piece “Šapat neba,” created shortly after the loss of his second parent. This painting, featured on the cover of the exhibition catalogue, highlights the intimate experiences that shape his work. Četković revealed, “My personal experiences serve as a medium through which I transform my inner world and daily situations into a visual form. This process imbues my work with psychological depth.”

Despite his artistic achievements, Četković addressed the ongoing struggles faced by artists in Montenegro. He noted, “In our country, art is primarily about survival.” He emphasized the financial hurdles that aspiring artists encounter, stating, “The economic status of citizens does not allow for the luxury of art for those who wish to enhance their living spaces with original paintings.”

While some developed countries provide regular financial support to artists, many Montenegrin artists must find alternative ways to sustain their creative practices. Although the state offers some support through status such as “independent artist,” the process of obtaining these rights is often complex and demanding. Četković expressed concern that this financial insecurity could discourage younger generations of artists.

He pointed out that the journey of a professional artist often entails significant sacrifices. “The path of a professional painter is often romanticized as a life full of inspiration and freedom,” he remarked. “However, the reality requires a level of discipline and sacrifice that few other professions demand.”

Četković highlighted the emotional and financial toll of pursuing art, stating that many artists live in constant economic uncertainty. “Most artists, especially painters, spend years, if not decades, in a state of financial struggle,” he explained. “While creating significant works, we often miss family gatherings and social outings, as the flow of creativity cannot be interrupted.”

He concluded by emphasizing the strength required to remain authentic in an environment where art is often undervalued. “An artist in Montenegro must possess a specific inner strength due to challenges stemming from a small market and systemic deficiencies. This is essentially a ‘Sisyphean task,’ requiring immense effort to stay true to one’s vision in a society that still views art as a hobby rather than a serious profession.”

The exhibition “Granice postojanja” serves not only as a showcase of Četković’s artistic exploration but also as a reflection on the broader context of artistic expression in Montenegro. As visitors engage with his work, they are invited to contemplate the delicate interplay of existence and the myriad forces that shape human experience.