Peasant from Simitli 

This is Ivan Mrkviсka’s painting of a Peasant from Simitli, made with oil paints. While this is a traditional medium, its very presence here is suggestive, pointing to a cultural exchange between rural life and the urban art world. Consider the clothing that the peasant is wearing, and the material that it is made of. This is a painting that is so mindful of the details. From the handcrafted leather shoes, woven belt, and wool clothing, each element speaks to a tradition of making. But these traditions aren't isolated, they are part of a global economy of materials and making practices. Mrkviсka's painting captures the dignity and the skill embedded in the man's craft. It prompts us to question how artistic skill can be found not only in the act of painting, but also in the traditions of craftsmanship that shape everyday life. This approach challenges the boundaries between art and craft, inviting us to appreciate the value of making in all its forms.