In Kovacica, a village in northern Serbia, a unique artistic tradition is gaining international recognition. This week, the naïve art created by local farmers is being added to UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. The story of this art form dates back nearly a century, beginning with two farmers who turned to painting during the long winter months.
Around 1939, Martin Paluska and Jan Sokol started painting. Despite having just a few years of formal education, they found inspiration in the world around them, ultimately creating art that reflects village life, landscapes, and daily activities in a simple style known as naïve art. It is characterized by vibrant colors and folk motifs, showcasing the beauty of the Slovak community’s culture in Serbia.
The Kovacica gallery, established in 1955, has become a hub for nearly 50 recognized naïve artists and attracts around 20,000 visitors each year. Among its notable artists is Zuzana Chalupova, whose depictions of children gained fame through UNICEF postcards. Another local figure, Martin Jonas, is known for his unique portrayals of farmers, emphasizing their labor with exaggerated features that symbolize their hard work.
UNESCO highlighted this art form as a vital way to preserve the cultural heritage of the Slovak community in Serbia. In response, Serbia’s government celebrated the UNESCO decision, asserting that it reflects the country’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity.
Experts like Pavel Babka, a gallerist, view naïve art as a valuable repository of traditional customs. He points to paintings that depict scenes of everyday life, like children in traditional clothing and horse-drawn carts, remembering the Austro-Hungarian past.
Artists today, such as 65-year-old Stefan Varga, draw inspiration from stories passed down through generations. Varga reflects on a simpler time, creating joyful images filled with vibrant colors and local farm life. He emphasizes that naïve art communicates feelings in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.
As this local tradition gains recognition, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage while celebrating the beauty of community life.
