Bridging Worlds
Adelisa Selimbašić's Art of Connection and Intimacy
It's a pleasure, 2023, olio su tela. Adelisa Selimbašić.
In the whirlwind world of contemporary art, connections are as crucial as creativity. I had the pleasure of chatting with Adelisa Selimbašić, a Bosnian-Italian artist born in 1996 in Karlsruhe, Germany. Her unique journey spans continents and cultures, deeply reflecting in her vibrant and emotive works. Our conversation, set against the backdrop of her hectic travel schedule, offered a deep dive into her artistic vision and personal experiences.
Adelisa and I connected amidst her travel chaos—she was at an airport, grappling with a canceled flight to Berlin for an art residency. Despite the inconvenience, she greeted the situation with warmth and openness. It was this attitude that initially drew me to her work. Adelisa’s art, discovered through Instagram, felt like a conversation rather than just visual imagery.
“I’m really glad we could connect despite the circumstances,” she said with excitement.
Adelisa’s background is as dynamic as her art. Born to Bosnian parents and raised in Italy, she embodies a blend of these two distinct cultures. This dual heritage, coupled with her current nomadic lifestyle, deeply influences her work. Her paintings are not just representations but conversations with the diverse people she encounters during her travels.
“My work is about people, bodies, and how they present themselves,” Adelisa explained. “I capture their essence during moments of confidence and vulnerability. My paintings are like imprints of the people I meet, whether it’s in a club, a bar, or just on the street.”
Since relocating to Milan in early 2020, her artistic practice has evolved to include a more vibrant color palette, reflecting a shift in her approach. This change underscores her unique interplay between everyday female representations and dreamlike elements. Through radicalized chromatic elements and sculptural tactility, Selimbašić aims to challenge conventional views of the female body and propose a new perspective—the female gaze.
Adelisa’s work often explores themes of femininity and identity, pushing against societal norms. Initially focusing on female figures, she found herself more intrigued by the broader concept of femininity rather than the specifics of the female body.
“I realized I wasn’t just painting women but exploring femininity,” she said. “It’s about how femininity intersects with societal expectations and personal identity. I want my paintings to evoke feelings rather than convey a specific message.”
Her approach is both personal and universal, aiming to break down barriers of gender and societal norms. “I want people to see beyond the physical form and connect with the emotion and action portrayed,” she explained. “Art should transcend categories and resonate on a human level.”
A distinctive feature of Adelisa’s process is the intimate collaboration she establishes with her subjects. She often encounters people spontaneously, inviting them to be part of her work. This approach not only enriches her art but also fosters meaningful connections.
“I always ask for permission and try to understand my subjects’ stories,” Adelisa said. “Their experiences, their vulnerabilities—these elements deeply inform my paintings. It’s a collaborative process where both the artist and the subject contribute to the final piece.”
Her process includes giving subjects the freedom to choose how they wish to be portrayed, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and intimacy to her work. “Sometimes, people reveal parts of themselves they don’t usually share, and it’s a profound experience,” she noted.
Our conversation also touched upon how art reflects societal attitudes and personal experiences. Adelisa’s paintings often challenge conventional views, encouraging viewers to interpret them through their own lenses. This ambiguity invites a deeper connection and understanding.
“It’s fascinating to see how different people interpret my work based on their own experiences,” she said. “Art should be a space where people can project their own stories and feelings, breaking down preconceived notions and embracing a broader perspective.”
As Adelisa continues her journey between Berlin, New York, and beyond, her art remains a testament to her ever-evolving exploration of identity and human connection. Her work not only bridges cultures but also invites viewers to engage in a dialogue about their own experiences and perceptions.
“I love that my art can create conversations and provoke thought,” she shared. “It’s about finding common ground and celebrating our shared humanity.”
As we wrapped up our conversation, I was left with a profound appreciation for Adelisa’s approach to art and her dedication to creating meaningful connections through her work. Her journey is a reminder that art, at its core, is a bridge—connecting people, cultures, and ideas in a continually unfolding dialogue.