Ratko Odalović Wins First Prize at Herceg Novi Winter Salon

The Herceg Novi Winter Salon has awarded its top honor to artist Ratko Odalović for his piece titled “Putnik”. The opening ceremony for this prestigious event is scheduled for this evening at the Gradska galerija “Josip Bepo Benković”. Alongside Odalović, Marko Petrović Njegoš received the second prize for his sculpture “Fosil jezgra”, while Lidija Nikčević claimed the third prize for her artwork “Tri stabla”.

The exhibition, titled (Ne)Pripadanje or (Non)Belonging, was curated by David Delibašić, who previously won an award for his work “Bez naziva” at the 54th edition of the Salon. The judging panel included museum educator Anita Šimić, painter Ivan Đurišić, and head juror, curator Špela Stramšek.

The jury faced a challenging task in evaluating a total of 34 pieces from various media and expressive approaches. After thorough discussion, they reached a unanimous decision regarding the award placements.

In their evaluation, the jury described Odalović’s winning piece as a work of “exceptionally complex and technically masterful artistic structure.” They noted that the artwork is constructed as a dense narrative field, consisting of numerous micro-motifs, symbolic fragments, and visual situations. The piece maintains transparency and rhythm while allowing for a layered interpretation, showcasing a high level of painterly virtuosity.

Petrović Njegoš’s sculpture, “Fosil jezgra,” was praised for its mature sculptural articulation and pronounced material awareness. Meanwhile, Lidija Nikčević’s work, “Tri stabla,” was highlighted for its precisely constructed artistic composition and subtle atmosphere.

As the evening unfolds, the artworks will be showcased to the public, allowing attendees to experience the creativity and skill of these talented artists firsthand. The Herceg Novi Winter Salon continues to serve as an important platform for contemporary art, fostering dialogue and appreciation for diverse artistic expressions.