Katerina Marcelja

Katerina Marcelja is a contemporary artist whose work explores the intersections of memory, identity, and materiality. Born in Las Vegas in 1971, she spent her formative years in Rome, Italy, before establishing her artistic practice in Brooklyn, New York. Marcelja's diverse background informs her multidisciplinary approach, which encompasses sculpture, performance, installation, and collage. Her work often delves into personal and collective histories, examining how narratives are constructed, deconstructed, and reimagined through the materials and forms she employs.

Marcelja's artistic journey began with formal education in sculpture at Boston University, where she studied under Carol Keller. She further expanded her artistic vocabulary by pursuing performance studies at New York University and architecture at City College of New York. This eclectic academic background has allowed her to develop a unique methodology that blends sculptural techniques with performative elements and architectural considerations. Her works often challenge traditional boundaries, inviting viewers to engage with art in dynamic and thought-provoking ways.

One of Marcelja's notable solo exhibitions is "Krpice," presented at the M E N Gallery in New York City. The title, derived from a Serbo-Croatian term meaning "rags" or "trifles," references a poem by Vasko Popa and reflects the exhibition's exploration of overlooked memories and fragmented narratives. Through a series of sculptures and collages made from old garments and textiles, Marcelja creates tactile assemblages that evoke a sense of nostalgia and loss. These works serve as invitations for the imagination to reconstruct personal histories and reconsider the significance of seemingly insignificant moments.

Work

Artists

Katerina Marcelja

Katerina Marcelja

Sanda Iliescu

Sanda Iliescu

Suzanne Goldenberg

Suzanne Goldenberg

Jean-Yves Klein

Jean-Yves Klein