Esma Mrahorović-Berbić, an alumna of the International University of Sarajevo (IUS), is making waves in the Bosnian art scene. Graduating from the Visual Arts and Visual Communications Design program at the IUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Esma has leveraged her academic foundation to initiate and promote the First BiH Digital Gallery, a groundbreaking project aimed at amplifying the presence of Bosnian art and artists.
The Genesis of a Vision
The seeds of the First BiH Digital Gallery were sown during Esma's UX/UI design course at IUS in 2023. The course tasked students with creating a UI application to address a societal issue in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Esma, an artist who frequently participated in art colonies across the country, recognized a glaring problem: the insufficient promotion of Bosnian artists and their works. Her research revealed a startling lack of awareness and ownership of Bosnian art among the public.
Driven by this discovery, Esma envisioned a platform that would spotlight Bosnian artists and their creations. Her initial project, resembling artist profiles and portfolios, garnered positive feedback from professors and peers at IUS, marking the successful completion of her coursework.
From Concept to Reality
Post-graduation, Esma embarked on her professional journey, gaining valuable experience while the idea of the digital gallery lingered in her mind. In early 2024, with renewed determination, she assembled a small team to transform her vision into a fully-fledged web application. The result was the "First BiH Digital Gallery," a platform designed to foster a community of Bosnian artists and invigorate the local art market. Through social media channels, Esma's team implements a strategic marketing plan to promote artists who choose to exhibit their works in the digital gallery.
A Milestone Achievement
The official launch of the First BiH Digital Gallery was held on July 5th, featuring a series of short lectures, including discussions on artificial intelligence and its limitations in replicating traditional art.
The First BiH Digital Gallery represents a significant step forward in the promotion and appreciation of Bosnian art. As Esma Mrahorović-Berbić continues to spearhead this innovative project, her journey from IUS student to a pioneering force in the art community stands as an inspiring testament to the impact of dedication and vision.
For more information and to explore the gallery, please visit https://digitalnagalerija.ba/
