Tuzla

The exhibition "Bridge of Brotherhood and Unity around the Croatian National Theatre" by Saša Mesić opened at the Ismet Mujezinović Atelier in Tuzla on June 18, 2026. Organized by the City of Tuzla and the Public Institution Center for Culture Tuzla, the exhibition was opened by Mayor Dr. Zijad Lugavić and attended by many citizens, art lovers, and former Croatian President Stjepan Mesić.

The presentation brings together 18 works, including triptychs, in which motifs of nature, mountains, the sea, the Mrežnica river, and Brijuni become images of connection, peace, and positive energy. The artist found additional inspiration in the atelier itself and in the legacy of Ismet Mujezinović, especially his painting "The Liberation of Tuzla 1943".

"Art connects even where there is no bridge," Saša Mesić said, explaining that the red flowers in front of the Croatian National Theatre reminded her of a bridge. Since the area around the theatre is often associated with tensions and divisions, she wanted the exhibition to send the opposite message: art should bring people together.

Mayor Lugavić emphasized that, especially today, the exhibition carries a strong message of peace, reconciliation, and shared life. The artist herself wished the audience a simple and sincere encounter with the works: "I would like visitors to look at the paintings with interest and for the paintings to lift their mood. The basic role of art is to raise people's energy and bring positive emotions."