KUĆĆA is a curatorial collective formed in 2021 with the goal of creating a collaborative space for artists, curators, theoreticians and other individuals and organizations who work in fields of process-based, experimental and investigative artistic practices. Their innovative residency program LIVING ROOM is designed to foster the development and production of research by emerging artists or collectives based in Croatia, focusing on experimental, speculative, and process-driven artistic practices. Over a span of four months, they invite artists to engage in a new experimental space where they can explore nascent ideas, unconventional materials, unusual connections, and non-traditional formats within the world and its broader contexts. Their aim is to collaboratively investigate new approaches to artistic research and presentation through a hybrid residency format that features both independently organized art events and collaborations with other artists, curators, and organizations. The initiative seeks to support young artists by providing them with a conducive environment for their creative work, offering artistic and curatorial guidance, as well as opportunities for networking on both local and international levels throughout the duration of the project. Throughout the residency, they develop both online and offline formats for presenting the research process, expanding our network of collaborators and engaging new audiences. The program is open to various themes, media, and methodologies without restrictions.
In just a year since its inception, Klet has quickly become one of the most captivating and innovative initiatives in Zagreb's cultural and artistic landscape. Situated within the Ilica 73 corridor, this venue serves not only as a gallery but also as a vibrant cultural and social center that unites artists, creatives, cultural professionals, and enthusiasts of independent art. Welcoming and laid-back atmosphere encourages collaboration, the exchange of ideas, and the creation of distinctive events. This thriving environment is the result of the tremendous passion, dedication, and creativity of a small group of individuals who have devoted their free time to bring this project to fruition. Klet is more than just a space for displaying art; it is a platform that supports emerging and lesser-known artists from the region and beyond, allowing them to showcase their work and thrive in a DIY and guerrilla-style environment. This initiative is made possible by a diverse collective of members with backgrounds ranging from law to scenography, illustration, cultural management, and visual arts. In this interview, we will have the chance to learn about the individuals behind Klet, explore their collaborative processes, discuss the challenges they encounter in their daily operations, and uncover their aspirations for the future.
The newly inaugurated space of the independent printing house SMAK PRESS serves as a hub for visual artists, featuring informal pop-up exhibitions, daily activities, and forthcoming workshops. Initially, the Sito(s)tisak collective organized workshops in the Pippilotta Info Library space since 2016, facilitated by AKC Attack and led by circus artist and screen printer Nikola Mijatović. These workshops introduced participants to the fundamentals of the siotisak printing technique. Among those who took part in one of these sessions were artists Vedran Štimac, Ana Dumančić, Filip Pilj, and Marin Remić, who now comprise the independent publishing collective Smak Press.