Ahead of the opening of her solo exhibition “Time Ate Me Up”, which opens on April 18th at 7 PM in Holographik.Space in Zagreb, we spoke with artist Nina Bekeniova about her work, inspiration, and her relationship with time as the central theme of the exhibition. This exhibition also marks her joining the ArtBeat platform, and through a new series of works, Bekeniova explores the pace of contemporary life, personal processes, and internal changes that shape her artistic expression.
You're originally from Slovakia, was it difficult for you to adapt to life in Croatia?
Any change in life is difficult, especially due to a new language and changes in society and culture. Over time, one gets used to it and learns to appreciate the things around them. I personally adore Croatia, and after such a long time, I feel at home.
Since you come from an artistic family, would you say that your career choice was influenced by your family, or did you want to pursue art regardless?
That's a very interesting question. I believe that everything you are surrounded by from the beginning influences you, and so it was with me. But the further decision to pursue it was exclusively mine.
Why did you choose graphics as your medium out of all the mediums?
Graphics were a challenge for me. I've always loved textures, which are not really present in flat printing. That's why I chose graphics, so I could explore how interesting this technique can be and how many different possibilities it actually offers, and it was there that I found the beauty of screen printing.
Time Ate Me Up, 70x100cm, screen printing
Is there another medium in which you enjoy expressing yourself?
I enjoy painting, and lately stop motion has become interesting to me, so I believe I will start pursuing that in the near future.
Do you prefer working in smaller or larger formats?
Smaller formats have always been the most rewarding for me, but I must admit I've grown tired of them, so now comes the "era" of larger formats.
In previous interviews, you mentioned that almost all of your graphics are done in black and white. Why did you decide to use color in this new series? Is it an internal excuse you decided to ignore?
Before college, I mostly drew with a rapidograph, so I didn't see the need for color then. Later, it was no longer my decision – as a student at the Academy of Fine Arts, in the first and second year, you mostly work in black and white so that the focus is on the technique. I got tired of that, so the beginning of the third year was my beginning of 'colorful' art, which then really started to fulfill me.
What most often inspires you in your work?
Nature and certain moments (situations) definitely inspire me. I am generally a very visual person and enjoy those little things.
The title of your final work is "Time Ate Me Up". What most influenced your choice of theme?
The choice of theme was most influenced by the hectic everyday life we live in. The theme 'Time Ate Me Up' did not arise from a feeling of pressure to finish undergraduate studies, but from personal reflection on the pace of life and the way time often 'swallows' and shapes us.
Time Ate Me Up, 70x100cm, screen printing
What does time personally mean to you?
Time for me means experience, an opportunity for exploration, experiencing, and learning.
Do you feel a difference in your own creativity when you work under pressure compared to moments when you are relaxed?
It has a big impact where the pressure comes from. If it comes from outside, I find it difficult to bear, and then it's harder for me to work. But when I put pressure on myself, then I am very active and motivated. That's why I try to anticipate the moment and create it for myself before it comes from outside.
How important is it for you to step out of your "comfort zone" and try something new and different?
Yes, absolutely. I like to step out of my 'comfort zone'. It's not always easy, but as an extroverted person who socializes a lot and is quite open, I've learned how much such moments can positively affect me.
Is there an artist you particularly look up to?
My dear friend Bartol Galović. I have never met a person who literally 'lives' for art. He is always a motivating point for me.
Have you learned anything about yourself through this series of works?
Through this series of works, I resolved many internal struggles and things that were bothering me.