RasaTodosijevic
Biography
Raša Todosijević (1945–2024) was a renowned Serbian conceptual artist whose work became a key part of the avant-garde and conceptual art movements in Yugoslavia. Born in Belgrade, Todosijević graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in 1969 and soon became an influential figure in the country's art scene. In the early 1970s, he became a prominent member of a collective of artists who helped shape the cultural landscape of Belgrade. Along with figures such as Marina Abramović and Neša Paripović, he was instrumental in the development of conceptual art and new media in Yugoslavia. His work explored complex themes, often challenging traditional ideas of art and pushing the boundaries of performance, installation, and media art. Todosijević’s most famous works include What is Art? and God Loves the Serbs, which questioned the nature of art and engaged with political and societal issues. These works drew from Neo-Dadaist principles, employing humor and irony to provoke deeper thought about cultural norms and the role of the artist in society. His art has been exhibited globally in major institutions, including the Museum of Contemporary Art in Belgrade, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Tate in London, and the Museum of Modern Art in Stockholm, among others. His impact on the conceptual art movement is profound, with his work continuing to be studied and appreciated for its intellectual rigor and boundary-pushing creativity. In 2014, Todosijević represented Serbia at the 54th Venice Biennale and was awarded the Unicredit Venice Award, marking a significant moment in his career. He passed away in December 2024, leaving behind a lasting legacy in contemporary art.
