On the evening of August 17, 2024, Skopje’s City Park came alive with artistry during the Skopje Creative Fest. The event brought together a diverse range of artists, including singers, dancers, poets, comedians, and painters, all sharing their unique talents.

Amid the hustle and bustle of the festival, Jakub Pokuciński had the opportunity to speak with Nikolija Zlatevska, organiser of Skopje Creative Fest. Despite her busy schedule, Nikolija shared her insights into the vision and mission of the event.

“The idea behind Skopje Creative Fest was to create a space where artists of all talents and backgrounds could come together and have an impact as a youth community”, Nikolija explained. “Creativity has no bounds, and every young person deserves a safe space to present their talents, exchange ideas, and leave a lasting impression on a large audience”.

Her words reflect the essence of the festival – a celebration of diversity and creativity, during which young artists can shine and inspire.

The artists brought their unique perspective and talent to the stage, and our VOICES team had the opportunity to ask them a few questions.

Adalberto Haayen & Ben Harkness:

Type of art: poetry

Instagram: @artbyblock

What message or emotion do you hope to share through your art?

“I hope to let people know through my art that it is okay to feel vulnerable.”

How do you see the role of art in society?

“As an artist who expresses love, revolution, and anything in between, I believe art plays a crucial role in challenging norms and inspiring change.”

Ilysha Milton & Sarah and Jana –  The Painting Duo

Type of art: Acrylic art and canvas

Instagram: @thepaintingduo

What makes your art unique?

“Probably the love that we put into the art to make people’s homes beautiful.”

How do you stay motivated to keep creating?

“It’s an everyday task to stay motivated and keep creating, but it’s what we love to do.”

Nursena Bayraktepe & Mila Popovska

Type of art: dance

Instagram: @milapopovsk

What do you think is the most important quality an artist should have?

“A sense of self, and the ability to observe people and the environment.”

How do you see your art changing in the future?

“In the future, technology may become more integrated into dance, making it a more common aspect of the art form.”

Mustafa Gündoğdu & Ezana Shabani

Type of art: poetry

Instagram: @tinypoetictenders_

What does participating in this festival mean to you?

“I’ve been interested in poetry since I was 13. I’m happy to engage with this art form and love being part of events like this.”

How do you feel about sharing your talent at this festival?

“Performing in front of people makes me more confident, and I love creating something for others, especially young people.”

Kübra Nur Bölükbaş & Anja Milenkova

Type of art: visual art

Instagram: @anjamilenkova

What role does creativity play in your daily life?

“Creativity is my whole life. It runs in my veins. I live to create.”

How do you balance your artistic activities with other aspects of your life?

“I chose subjects like music and art in high school to help balance my creative activities, but I plan to study something else in college. I hope to continue painting and making music in my spare time.”

Antonia Barth & MindLeaps (Alina & Nenad)

Type of art: dance

Instagram: @mindleapsnorthmacedonia

What inspired you to perform at the festival?

“We were invited by the organisers – it’s an honour to be part of the event.”

What inspires you to create?

“My inspiration comes from the joy of giving back to the community and being an active part of it. Plus, I’ve been passionate about dancing since I was young.”

Emre Aydan & Davor Trajkovik

Type of art: music band (vocal)

Instagram: @l0stinreverie – @davortrajkovik

What does success mean to you as an artist?

“Success means above all working on something that I’m passionate about and resonate with people the same way they resonated with me. I think I can define success for myself as if I have been successfully able to put something out that has meaning to me and that someone finds some value in it as well. So just sharing my passions and my love with other people. That’s what is success to me.”

What advice would you give to other young artists who are just starting out?

“The number one advice I would give to any aspiring young artist, especially those from Macedonia but also around the world, is to meet people, share your stories, ask questions, talk about yourself, make friends, be kind, and try to connect with as many people as possible. And, of course, practice a lot.”

Skopje Creative Fest 2024 was a great reminder of the power of creativity and community. The event brought together young artists from various backgrounds, giving them a platform to share their talents and connect with others. As the festival wrapped up, it left us full of inspiration and excitement for what these talented creators will do next.

VOICES team