Painting came into my life in a subtle way.  Trying to balance out highly demanding extrovert life as a conductor, I found serenity in this process of artistic expression.

Thanks to Nikola Dzepina, my first teacher, who introduced me to painting, my mind opened up to vast possibilities of self-growth. I found myself much involved in a long creative discussions with him during the process of learning the charcoal  technique.  When I gained the basic knowledge
of still life drawings, another opportunity turned up.

Taking up classes with Mirjana Jokanovic, (MA degree at Belgrade Academy of Fine Arts), was not as insightful but rather educational.  Her methodology proved to be more helpful when it comes to mastering pastel crayon technique. Not only  have I gained new skills but she continually provides me with valuable diversified resources for my growth. In June 2000, Mira organized a group exhibition where I showed a few of my selected works.

At the same time, new interest appeared -  Byzantine art of icon. I was eager to learn something about that ancient, fascinating technique developed by generations of anonymous monks whose icons carry unique underlining of their religious rites. Mira took my desire with much understanding and kindly recommended me to Mr. Slobodan Vitkovic (Vita), one of the best known icon painting specialists in the area.  He taught me the basics of wooden panel preparation and foundation for colour . Than, I continued my icon education with Ms. Olga Klod in Moscow (July - August 2000). The time spent in Russia turned out to be most rewarding since Ms. Olja's invaluable advice had greatly influenced the decision to dedicate my artistic work to icon, only, in the period to come.

Contact me: dusanmih@eunet.yu

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