Processes Behind the Artwork by Dushan Perchinkov

Publication launch and conversation with the artist

MоCA Skopje | October 1, 2026, at 12:00 PM

Art, as a reflection of the material, spiritual and cultural processes within a society, is often shaped by individual visions and exceptional creative practices that leave a lasting mark.

In the history of Macedonian modern and contemporary art and culture, truly significant and steadfast pillars – those playing a pivotal role and remaining a source of inspiration—are rare. Only a very small number of artists have managed to deeply embed themselves in the dynamic development of a cultural environment striving for spiritual and aesthetic elevation. Even rarer are those whose creative experience and artistic practice have left a visible trace illuminating the context in which their works emerged, revealing an awareness of historical perspective, and demonstrating that their achievements are not the result of chance, but of a clear vision and persistent effort. 

Within that select yet immensely valuable circle of dedicated and courageous individuals—who, through their creative work,  embarked on an uncompromising quest for artistic excellence and defined the second half of the twentieth century—a special place belongs to Dushan Perchinkov—a visual artist and educator with a profound and influential body of work.

This book titled “PROCESSES BEHIND THE ARTWORK” represents a significant contribution to understanding his thought and practice. It brings together several texts by Perchinkov that address key themes and issues concerning the creative process – from the relationship between art and politics, and art conceived as exploration, self-reflection, and self-recognition, to the beauty of the act of creation itself. Some of these texts have been published previously but have been revised for this occasion and presented in a new context.

Additionally, the book includes five previously unpublished poetic texts known only to a close circle of friends and colleagues. We believe these offer a more complete and profound insight into Perčinkov’s overall artistic vision.

To round out this selection, the book also includes a portion of his “Imaginary Museum”—a collection of twenty-two reproductions of personal documentation featuring works by Old Masters as well as modern and contemporary artists. In an era of rapid and often superficial changes, Perchinkov reminds us of the importance of consistency, self-reflection, and a constant striving for depth—values that remain relevant today.

Editors: Vladimir Janchevski and Blagoja Varoshanec

Scanning and digital preparation of materials: Vladimir Janchevski and Ljupcho Iljovski

Design and layout: Iliana Petrushevska