This year’s seventh Kaleidoscope of Culture, once again revitalizing the District with its rich programme and bringing together artists and visitors from all over, offers a chance to explore several exceptional exhibitions, including The Use of Man. This exhibition marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Aleksandar Tišma, a prominent writer from Novi Sad. It was curated by Mina Aleksić and Ljiljana Kuzmanović, providing a unique artistic space for reflection on the universal themes of war. In this article, you will learn about the challenges the curators faced while setting up this exhibition, which serves as a meeting point between art and audience.
You can visit the exhibition at the Proizvodnja facility in the District from Wednesday to Sunday, in two terms: from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free for all interested visitors.
In addition to awakening strong emotions, here are our five reasons why you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit it:
An Interactive Experience for Visitors
The exhibition The Use of Man offers visitors a unique opportunity to actively participate in the artistic process. Visitors are invited to leave their (written) mark, meaning they are not just passive observers but, in a way, co-creators of the exhibition. This approach enables personal reflection and individual contributions from each visitor.
Space Divided into Thematic Units
Inspired by Aleksandar Tišma’s novel, the exhibition takes visitors through three symbolic sections that reflect different aspects of war—from the relatively peaceful period before the conflict, through the horrors of war and the camp experience, to the post-war period. This structured setup provides deep reflections on the destructive consequences of war.
Emotional Scenography that Encourages Introspection
The exhibition incorporates interactive elements to evoke emotions and invite visitors to introspect. Vera’s Room, representing the ’before’ and ’after’ of the war, encourages visitors to question their own views on war and its consequences. Here, art creates a space for free interpretation.
Timeless Relevance of Tišma’s Themes
Although Tišma’s works were written decades ago, the themes they explore—human nature, war, and moral dilemmas—remain relevant. The Use of Man successfully conveys these universal messages in a way that resonates with modern audiences, bridging the past with the present.
A Platform for Dialogue and Personal Engagement
The exhibition offers visitors the chance to ask questions, share thoughts, and explore new perspectives on universal topics that are still relevant today. This unique opportunity for dialogue and exchange makes the exhibition not only an artistic experience but a social one, where everyone can engage and express their views on these themes.
Don’t miss the chance to become part of this interactive display and discover the story of human experience through the Tišma’s work.
Author: Marina Marić
Photography: Srđan Doroški, Vladimir Veličković
