We're very proud to present to you a rather profound conversation with Mirza Cizmic, an artist whose turbulent upbringing and rich cultural background have deeply influenced his artistic journey. Mirza's work, steeped in personal history and emotion, challenges and explores the depths of human experience through his unique creative expression. Today, Cizmic shares insights into how his past has shaped his art, his pivotal moments of inspiration, and his views on the role of artists in society. 

It's with excessive enthusiasm, that we announce Mirza Cizmic is one of Artit's jurors. As a member of our esteemed jury panel, Mirza is excited to evaluate the works of artists who are committed to continuous learning and pushing the boundaries. We're sure the whole artistic community we've brought together on this platform will benefit significantly from Mirza's insights, skills and creativity.

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How has your upbringing and cultural background influenced your artistic journey and creative expression?

I grew up in a dangerous environment, and without much protection, I could have gone in so many wrong directions. But I chose to express myself in an “artistic way”, I assume that was my escape from reality. My childhood was violated on a massive scale; my right to be protected from violence, abuse and neglect, to live in dignity and to be supported to develop my full potential.

Can you recall a pivotal moment or experience in your early life that ignited your passion for art?

Since childhood, I have always had this inclination towards creating things. Drawing and painting were some of the activities I could not stop doing. I remember, I was a very curious and creative boy. I drew and painted everywhere I could. My father always encouraged me to paint more. Thanks to his support I developed a sense for art and artistic activities.

At what point in your life did you firmly decide to pursue art, and what were the pivotal factors in making that decision?

The significant element in my work is my memories. Growing up in an unhealthy environment made me more aware of reality, my identity, and my existence.  I am constantly fighting with my past; it is an infinite fight with no winners. Maybe that’s why I became an artist. To show my eternal struggle. Creating a sense of mystery might see my paintings as controversial, having attention for their exploration of taboo subjects and the psychology of the families’ values.

Discuss how your art comments on or reflects contemporary social, political, or environmental themes. In what ways does your artwork reflect or comment on current social, political, or environmental issues? Can you give specific examples from your works?

My struggle with my background became a major part of my artistic practice. The questions such as “Who I am?” and “What I have become?”. Next to my internal fear of the unknown, it makes me wonder where I belong. Quality in my artistic practice lies in my dedication to being more consistent and my desire to evolve as an artist. To seek and explore the chaotic depths of the human psyche is particularly challenging. That is why through my work I am also questioning my own existence guided by my personal beliefs.

Contemplate the role and responsibilities of an artist in society today. How do you perceive the role of an artist in today's society? What responsibilities, if any, do you believe artists have towards their communities or the broader public?

As an artist I am creating a personal expression, using work to convey emotions, thoughts, and experiences. The objective is to communicate with the inner world and personal narratives. To raise awareness, provoke thought, or engage the viewer's senses creating visual experiences and learning from the audiences’ interpretations. These objectives provide a sense of purpose and direction in the creative journey and can lead to a wide range of artistic outcomes and expressions.

Discuss the importance of messaging in your art and the audience’s understanding of it. How crucial is it for your audience to grasp the message behind your artwork? Do you create with a specific message in mind, and how do you gauge its reception?

I like to think that my work has the power to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and convey messages about strength in various dimensions of life and human experience. This can include depictions of overcoming personal struggles or facing challenging life situations. I am trying to convey emotional strength by depicting individuals who demonstrate resilience, courage, and determination.

Describe your artistic process from conception to completion. Could you walk us through the steps of your artistic process, starting from the initial idea to the finished piece? How do you develop your concepts, and what are the key stages in creating your final work?

To create work, I am using a photograph as a starting point, without being too pedantic. The idea is to catch and hold whatever the response is to the subject. The photographic element is usually a part of the composition -something that involves perspective or dimension for which I need a reference. The way I paint is a way of looking at the world, not through my eyes as a painter, but through my experiences. I'm using someone else's photos to build the message according to my concept.

Discuss the importance of personal connection to your subject matter. How important is having a personal connection to the subjects or themes of your artwork? Can you give examples of how this connection has influenced your work?

My work often features dreamlike and atmospheric “domestic landscapes”, figures, and scenes that blend elements of reality, nostalgia, imagination and isolation. Paintings are characterized by intense and emotional scenes, often featuring figures engaged in ambiguous or psychologically charged situations. I would say that my work is not only visually distinctive but also thought-provoking, as it often challenges conventional norms and pushes the boundaries of the imagination.

If you were given the opportunity to interview a creative mind from any era, who would be?

It would be Amadeo Modigliani.

List five key insights or lessons you wish you had known when you started your artistic journey.

Joy, fear, expression, creativity, courage.

Name five things for which you are most grateful in your artistic career.

Artist Dzenan Hadzihasanovic, ART college - Munka Ljungby,  Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki, my professor Petri Hytonen, Finland. 

Describe five steps you are taking to ensure your continual growth and development as an artist.

✧ Work

✧ More work

✧ Hard work

✧ Consistancy 

✧ More work

Describe how your approach to art has evolved over time. In what ways has your approach to creating art changed over the years? What have been the significant influences or learning experiences that have shaped your evolution as an artist?

Painting is my expression. I would say that for me painting is similar to life, it is a process that takes me from confusion to understanding.

 

Painting for me is very much about content. The hardest thing for me has always been what to paint and why. At the same time, it is a very intimate and personal activity. Specific events from my past have been crucial to my artistic practice. The language I use is based on my instincts. These instincts are divided into two parts. One is objective and formal while the other is subjective which belongs to me as an individual.

 

Being part of Finland’s contemporary art scene gives me opportunities to work in the perfect circumstances that I can possibly have. I am in a position to express my artistic work without fear of consequences. Freedom of expression is one of the highest qualities that Finland as a country and society have. It is a privilege to work in this environment. It is crucial for my progress as an artist.

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Thank you for taking the time to read this illuminating discussion between Artit and Mirza Cizmic. His artistic narrative not only reflects a personal voyage through adversity but also illustrates the power of art to transcend personal and cultural boundaries.

As Mirza continues to evolve and refine his practice, his work remains a testament to the power of artistic expression in addressing complex social, political, and personal themes. We look forward to seeing how his future projects will further impact and contribute to the global conversation on art and identity. Keep an eye on Mirza’s journey as he continues to push the boundaries of conventional artistry and explore new horizons.