Lazar Drljača

Bosnian painter. Lazar Drljača, born in Blatna village near Bosanski Novi on October 10, 1882, was a renowned academic painter from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Not only celebrated for his exceptional artwork, which gained recognition worldwide, but also for his unique lifestyle, earning him the title of the last Bosnian bogumil. Arriving in Sarajevo in 1896, Drljača pursued a career in locksmithing before completing his education in construction at the Technical High School in 1906. He then ventured to Vienna, where he was accepted into the Academy of Fine Arts under Professor Christian Griepenkerl. His talents led to an invitation to an international exhibition in Rome in 1911. During his eight years in Paris, Drljača's artistic style evolved, initially influenced by Fauvism before adopting a more secretive approach to his work. In 1919, news emerged of his internment in Italy during the war. In the 1920s, Drljača returned to his homeland, immersing himself in the Bosnian Krajina and embarking on exploratory journeys along the Una River. Despite his global acclaim, he lived modestly, painting out of love rather than for fame. After experiencing exile in Sardinia during World War I, Drljača settled back in Blatna village, finding solace in nature and capturing its essence in his art. In 1931, he established himself at Borački jezera, marking a pivotal moment in his life's journey. Despite facing adversity during World War II, Drljača continued to create, although much of his work was lost in a fire in 1946. He resided in various locations, eventually settling in Šantić's villa in Konjic, where he passed away on July 13, 1970. Drljača's legacy lives on through his profound connection with nature, his resilience in the face of hardship, and his dedication to his craft. As he once expressed, he considered himself a true Bosnian peasant, deeply rooted in his Bogumil heritage. His wish to be buried in the Bogumil tradition, marked by stećak, was fulfilled upon his death.