Today we’d like to introduce you to Mirjana Cesar
Hi Mirjana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born in the vibrant city of Zagreb, Croatia, in the 1960s, during a time when the country was part of the former Yugoslavia. From a young age, I found joy in the great outdoors, immersing myself in the beauty of nature.
Each summer, I eagerly anticipated the visits to my maternal grandparents in a charming small town in Eastern Croatia. My grandfather, a man of Austrian and Hungarian heritage, and my Slovak grandmother were enterprising small business owners. Their entrepreneurial spirit instilled in me a deep appreciation for creativity and craft. I learned a myriad of embroidery and sewing techniques from my grandmother before I even started school, fostering a lifelong passion for artistic expression.
My academic journey led me to the University of Zagreb, where I studied Furniture Design. In 1991, I married my husband, Darko—a remarkable year that would change our lives forever. That same year, Walt Disney Feature Animation organized a contest in Eastern Europe, searching for talented animators. Out of 2,000 candidates, Darko emerged as one of the four selected, paving the way for an incredible adventure.
In the late 1990s, we welcomed our three children into the world in Orlando, where we were surrounded by a rich tapestry of culture and creativity.
In 2005, a powerful urge to reconnect with my artistic roots surged within me, prompting a new chapter in my creative journey. I began to create mixed-media floral-themed artwork, drawing inspiration from the vivid memories of Croatian flora that had nurtured my childhood imagination. My work began to gain recognition and has since been published in esteemed publications such as *Belle Armoire Jewelry*, *Belle Armoire*, *Sew Somerset*, and *Somerset Studio Gallery Magazines*. Today, my art pieces find homes in collections that span locally, nationally, and internationally.
The spring of 2017 marked a pivotal moment when my husband and I collaborated on our first artistic project. This partnership not only transformed my artistic direction but also ignited a newfound passion for painting animal portraits. In recent years, I have delved into the realm of landscape paintings, embracing the ever-changing beauty of nature as my current artistic focus.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Pursuing a career as an artist and selling my creations has always been a challenging yet rewarding journey. Each opportunity to display my art is a chance I deeply appreciate. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a resident artist at Faith Arts Village Orlando, a vibrant community dedicated to fostering creativity. There, I host an open house every first Friday and Saturday of the month, inviting art lovers and the curious alike to explore my work in a warm and welcoming environment.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
When I’m not immersed in the world of painting my vibrant mixed media art landscapes, I find myself deeply engaged in the creation of intricate sculptures. Each of my mixed media sculptures emerges from the delightful chaos of up-cycled materials, where every scrap tells a story of transformation. I collect an array of elements—soft fabric remnants, malleable paper clay, flexible wire, lush yarns, and beads—each one waiting to be reinvigorated and given a new purpose within my artistic vision.
I am fueled by the exhilarating concept of metamorphosis, where discarded bits and pieces are reimagined into compelling narratives, often inspired by the rich tapestry of old European mythologies, the enigmatic Slavic gods, haunting ancient stories, or the majesty of wildlife. The very act of up-cycling resonates with these mythic themes; it mirrors the idea that profound change can emerge from neglect and disarray.
As I work with these diverse textures and embrace their imperfections, they become essential components of each sculpture’s story, inviting viewers to experience layers of meaning and depth. With each piece, I strive to present ancient tales through the contemporary lens of up-cycled artistry, hoping to spark curiosity and ignite the imaginations of those who encounter my work.
These sculptures stand as bridges connecting the past to the present, encouraging everyone to reflect on the timeless power of mythology and the boundless potential for renewal that resides within us all. In this way, my art becomes not just a visual experience, but a deeply reflective journey through history, transformation, and creativity.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
In my studio #238 at FAVO, I offer an array of engaging fiber art classes designed to inspire creativity. Each class accommodates a small group of students, allowing for a personalized and intimate learning experience. This close-knit setting enhances my ability to connect with each individual, providing tailored guidance and support. Surprisingly, I never envisioned myself in the role of a teacher, but after raising three kids, I’ve discovered that the skills I’ve developed in nurturing and fostering creativity translate seamlessly into my teaching style. Crafting alongside my students is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about creating a warm and encouraging atmosphere where everyone feels free to explore their artistic potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mirjanacesar.weebly.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirjana.n.c
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mirjanacesar
- Other: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/mirjana-cesar-56925920463
Image Credits
All my own photos
