**Cyprus as First Experienced Presented Through Works of Art**
A new exhibition titled "Closely Observed" featuring the works of Serbian artist Milenko Stevanović is set to open at the In Toto Gallery in Nicosia on Thursday, September 17, at 7 PM. The exhibition will run until October 15 and showcases a collection of four paintings, two fine art prints, and one drawing that reflect Stevanović's initial years in Cyprus, created between 2021 and 2026.
Curated by Constantinos Kyprianou and presented by ABR – Alternative Brains Rule, "Closely Observed" delves into the theme of portraiture as a reciprocal act of observation. The exhibition aims to challenge the conventional notion that observation is a one-sided act, where one individual looks while another is merely seen. Instead, it proposes that the act of looking is mutual, transforming both the observer and the subject.
The works on display are not merely portraits but rather a representation of the relationships and experiences that have defined Stevanović's life on the island. The exhibition invites viewers to consider how the act of painting from life blurs the lines between the observer and the observed, leading to a deeper understanding of both the artist's subjects and his own creative process.
Organizers of the exhibition explain that the hours spent together by the artist and his sitters allow for a dynamic interaction where likeness transcends mere representation. The resulting artworks emphasize elements such as color, weight, rhythm, and light, creating a new perspective on the subjects depicted. This exploration of observation extends beyond the physical act of painting, as the exhibition itself becomes a reflection of Stevanović's life in Cyprus.
In addition to the artworks, the exhibition will feature two parallel events. On September 24 at 7 PM, there will be a conversation between the artist and Diomedes Koufteros, providing insights into the creative process and the themes explored in the exhibition. A guided tour led by Michael Pavlides is scheduled for October 2 at 7 PM, offering attendees a closer look at the works and the ideas behind them.
The exhibition's title, "Closely Observed," carries a dual significance. It refers not only to the careful observation that informs the creation of each piece but also to the way the exhibition itself serves as an observation of Stevanović's own life experiences. The collection of seven works ultimately forms a portrait of proximity, capturing the people, spaces, and daily rituals that have influenced the artist during his time in Cyprus.
A self-portrait included in the exhibition further emphasizes the theme of observation. In this piece, the artist becomes both the observer and the subject, illustrating the cyclical nature of looking and being looked at. The exhibition posits that attention is not a neutral act; it transforms both the individual who is seen and the one who sees.
"Closely Observed" will be open to the public on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 5 PM to 7:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM. The gallery will also be open during the Laou Laou event on Sundays from 10 AM to 1 PM and 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
For more information about the exhibition and the artist, interested individuals can visit the official websites: www.milenkostevanovic.com and www.alternativebrainsrule.com.