In an Art Kvart interview for Federalna TV, Milomir Kovačević Strašni emphasized that his work is consistent, thoughtful, and deeply personal, and that he does not see photography just as a document, but as an artistic and life process.
Speaking about his professional identity and recognition, Kovačević emphasized that his work is the result of consistency, not momentary inspiration.
“A person does what he thinks he should do, what he loves. If it is done honestly, fairly, and consistently, people recognize that work.”
He emphasized that he never saw photography as just a technical job, but as a permanent way of communicating and recording reality:
“Photography has the power to record important moments, depending on who is consistent in it and how he works.”
Exhibition “Firefighters in Wartime Sarajevo”
Speaking about the creation of this exhibition, he explained that it all started with a wartime group photograph, which later inspired him to create a wider cycle.
“The first idea was that group photo from the war. Later, looking at the negatives and the archive, I started looking for traces of these people and their work. When I couldn’t find everything individually, I decided to create a complete series through the archive material, so that their story would not be forgotten.”
He emphasized how impressed he was by their work in extreme conditions:
“They were directly in the fire, with minimal equipment, without everything we take for granted today. When I look at those photos today, I see their courage and dedication. Those images are extremely emotional and important to me.”
Thoughtful authorial work and fidelity to the film
Kovačević emphasized that his work is not improvisation, but carefully designed cycles.
“I am not a war photographer but a photographer in war. I make series of photographs and everything I do has a concept. Each exhibition is part of a wider cycle, nothing is accidental.”
He added that he believes in the power of photography itself, without the need for exaggerated effects:
“If a photograph is well thought out and well shot, it doesn’t need spectacle. It doesn’t need special lights or additional effects. It speaks enough on its own, if it is given the space to be seen.”
Exhibition as an experience and a meeting place
For him, an exhibition is a complete experience, not just a presentation of works.
“When someone enters the exhibition space and leaves, they must feel that they were part of something. An exhibition should have an atmosphere, a rhythm, like a mini-movie. It’s not enough to just hang photographs, the display is just as important as the work itself.”
He also emphasized the importance of direct contact with the audience, especially in smaller spaces:
“I like to exhibit both in galleries and in smaller spaces, like cafes or alternative venues, because that’s where you meet people directly. Then the conversation happens naturally, without distance, and the photography gains an additional dimension.”
Sarajevo and Paris – two phases of creation
Speaking about life between the two cities, he emphasized the emotional connection with Sarajevo, but also his professional development in Paris.
“Sarajevo is the city of my youth and beginnings. A good part of my life and archive is tied to that city. When I come, I feel a connection, but also a change.”
About working in Paris, he said:
“I developed a new rhythm in Paris. During the day, I work in a laboratory, in the dark, and at night I go out into the street to take photographs. That is my new phase of work, and that suits me.”
Message to young people
Finally, he told young people that work is the foundation of everything.
“Everything you do, do with love and a full heart. There is no calculation. Sometimes there will be years without exhibitions, sometimes without money, but if you work honestly and continuously, the results will come. The more of yourself you put into your work, the more it will come back to you. Sometimes faster, sometimes slower. But without work, there are no results. Even talent means nothing if there is no work behind it.”, Federalna writes.
