We were lucky to catch up with Alma Telibecirevic recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alma , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I see myself as someone who has always embraced risk. Art has been something that defined me since elementary school, especially growing up in Sarajevo during the war, where art became an even stronger medium for expression. While we didn’t know the outcome of the war or if I would survive, I chose to attend a high school of applied arts because during the chaos, art was the only thing that made sense. Sarajevo tried to survive through various forms of art, theater, concerts. Apart from school and painting, I also danced in a city without food, water, or electricity, which connected me to the normal everyday life of other teenagers around the world. Another example of embracing risk is when I, at 19, taught myself Italian, found ways to apply and enroll in the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice, spending the next two years exploring art in myself and around me in that beautiful city. I never solely lived off of art, but it has always been a part of my life, which has been good in my case, as it allows me to engage in art sincerely and explore artistic expressions in various ways without necessarily satisfying anyone’s taste or expectations. On the other hand, my career path led me to become a project manager, where I also dealt with art, this time as an organizer of concerts, festivals, etc.

Alma , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As an artist, I embarked on my creative journey through my studies at the Classical Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo and Venice, Italy. Growing up amidst the turmoil of war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I found solace and purpose in art, realizing its profound ability to transcend adversity.

My passion for travel and exploration has deeply influenced my artistic expression, leading me to explore diverse themes such as wildlife, love, and cultural heritage. Through mediums like acrylics on canvas and photography, I aim to evoke emotions and ignite curiosity in my audience.

Beyond my artistic endeavors, I’ve also been involved in event organization and production, leveraging my creative skills to curate meaningful experiences for audiences worldwide.

What sets me apart is my unique blend of creativity and practicality, allowing me to offer immersive artistic experiences while also addressing real-world challenges. I take pride in my work’s ability to foster connections and inspire dialogue across cultures.

I’m most proud of my art’s ability to resonate with others and spark meaningful conversations. I want potential clients and followers to know that my art is a reflection of my passion for creativity and my commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Through my work, I strive to inspire and uplift others, contributing to a more vibrant and interconnected global community.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with others on a deep emotional level through my creations. Art has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions and perspectives, and knowing that my work resonates with someone else, whether it brings them joy, comfort, or provokes thought, is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, being able to express myself freely and authentically through my art is immensely rewarding, as it allows me to explore my own emotions, experiences, and perspectives in a tangible and meaningful way. Overall, the opportunity to inspire, uplift, and connect with others through art is what I find most rewarding as an artist.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

As an artist, I believe society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by recognizing the value of art and its impact on our communities. Providing adequate funding and resources for artistic endeavors, such as grants, scholarships, and artist residencies, is crucial for enabling artists to pursue their passions and contribute to cultural enrichment.

Additionally, fostering a culture that values and celebrates creativity through arts education in schools and community programs is essential for nurturing the next generation of artists. Encouraging collaboration and networking opportunities within the creative community helps artists connect, learn from one another, and access new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Creating accessible and inclusive spaces for artists to showcase their work, such as galleries, performance venues, and public art installations, allows for greater visibility and engagement with the arts. Supporting initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts ensures that all voices are heard and represented in our creative landscape.

Furthermore, advocating for fair compensation and economic support for artists, including implementing policies that protect their rights and provide financial stability, is crucial for sustaining their livelihoods and fostering a vibrant creative ecosystem.

Ultimately, society’s support for artists and creatives is not just about financial assistance but also about recognizing their contributions, uplifting their voices, and embracing the transformative power of art in shaping our collective consciousness and enriching our lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: Almat.threadless.com 
• Instagram: @Atelibecirevic; @almat.art
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Telibecirevic
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atelibecirevic/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlmaTelibecirevic/videos

Image Credits
Alma Telibecirevic only