Radovan Alabalić, born in Belgrade in 1962, is a prominent figure in the Serbian and former Yugoslavian contemporary art scene. He is primarily known as a sculptor, though his practice extends to drawing, installation, and performance art. Alabalić’s work often explores themes of identity, memory, history, and the complex political and social landscape of the Balkans. Alabalić studied sculpture at the Faculty of Fine Arts in Belgrade, graduating in 1989. The sociopolitical context of the time, marked by the disintegration of Yugoslavia and the rise of nationalism, deeply influenced his artistic trajectory. Early in his career, he engaged with the anxieties and uncertainties of this turbulent period. His sculptures from the 1990s, often crafted from found objects and industrial materials, possess a raw, unsettling quality. These pieces evoke a sense of unease and disintegration, reflecting the breakdown of established structures and ideologies. A recurring motif in Alabalić’s work is the exploration of the human figure, frequently fragmented or distorted. He doesn’t shy away from addressing difficult aspects of Serbian and Balkan history, including war, displacement, and trauma. He often presents these themes not through direct representation but through symbolic imagery and metaphorical language. His work aims to provoke reflection and critical engagement with the past and its lingering impact on the present. Beyond sculpture, Alabalić has explored various mediums to convey his artistic vision. His drawings often serve as preparatory studies for his sculptures or as independent works that delve into similar thematic concerns. He has also created installations that incorporate sound, light, and found objects, creating immersive environments that invite viewers to contemplate the complexities of history and memory. His performance art pieces are often site-specific and engage with the surrounding environment and audience, blurring the lines between art and life. Alabalić’s work has been exhibited extensively both in Serbia and internationally. He has participated in numerous group shows and solo exhibitions, showcasing his distinctive artistic voice. He is recognized as a key figure in Serbian contemporary art, contributing significantly to the dialogue surrounding identity, history, and the ongoing process of reconciliation in the Balkans. He challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage with the complexities of the region’s past and present. He currently lives and works in Belgrade. He remains active on the contemporary art scene, constantly innovating and producing challenging and thought-provoking work. Alabalić’s artistic legacy lies in his ability to transform personal and collective traumas into powerful works of art that resonate with audiences worldwide.