The world of art often fins it self oscillating between the avant-garde and the nostalgic, the
abstract and the tangible.
In such a dynamic artistic landscape, the work of Jordan Manasijeski appears not only as a
fusion of styles, but as a characteristic fusion of colour, light and emotions.
The recent promotion of his voluminous monograph at MANU, an undetaking meticulously
crafted by the art critic Vladimir Velichkovski,the editor Ljupcho Zhupan and Jordan Manasijeski
ArtFoundation, is more than just a tribute to his artistic journey. It is proof of his continuing
influence in the field of contemporary art.
And right after that promotion at MANU, for which I had an invitation, but could not attend, I was
thrilled to find out that Bitola will have the chance to be the second city in which the monograph
will be presented, together with an exhibition of the renowned artist.
This was also the first real chance for me to meet the artist live, and for that It hank my dear
friend, the gallerist Ljupcho Zhupan.
Why did I want to meet Jordan Manasijeski?
Because of his philosophy ,eloquently articulated with his words:‘We are children of the sun,
love is the only truth.’
A philosophy, which I read some where, and in which I recognized my self to a great extent. I
also saw his work soften exhibited in Zhupan’s gallery in Ohrid ‘Bukefal’,and that philosophy
was mor ethan evident in his canvases. His paintings are not just visual experiences, they are
spiritual journeys ,a celebration of life as‘sacred joy and gift’. This perspective is not onl yhis
muse,but also his message, an invitation to the observer to drink heartily from the‘Eternal
Beauty of the Celestial Spectrum and the Great Mystery.’
And after this, I conclude that I want to quote Manasijeski, who is not only a painter. For me, this
man has his own philosophy for life, which he lives by and which he speaks about with
extraordinary zeal.
The day I met Jordan Manasijeski, The Officcer’s Hall was just a canvas, mirroring the vibrancy
and depth I would soon discover in conversation with the artist. The man whose paintings speak
volumes about his deep connection with nature and his inner self.
There’s to od Manasijeski, his presence as entrancing as his art, him being a charismatic and
contemplative character, and his eyes reflected the same intensity and warmth found in his
landscapes.
Our conversation began with the mundane, but quickly entered the realm of philosophy and art.
And for a moment I had the feeling that we had known each other for a long time.
Manasijeski spoke passionately about his journey, and his voice was a blend of nostalgia and
optimism.The vivid colors, bold strokes, subtle shades of light and shadow in his works spoke
of a man deeply in love with the world around him, but also his search for an imagined, purer
world.
Manasijeski’s art is not just a representation of landscapes,itis a celebration of life ,a node to
the beauty that surrounds us. Or a dream, as it should be in an ideal world.
He also shared his thoughts on his latest monograph. With a touch of pride but also humility, he
spoke of the recognition his work has received, especially from internationally renowned critics
such as Dr.SalvatoreRusso, who emphasizes the universal appeal of his art, that is
Manasijeski’s approach of mixing figures with informal structures, much like the works of Pollock
and Klein, but still retain in gaunique identity. This approach high lights his innovative spiritand
his quest to explore the deeper realms of the subconscious through his art.
As I left the exhibition, I carried with me a deep sense of connection, not only to Jordan
Manasijeski’s art, but to the art ist himself. The meeting was more than an exploration of his
artistic achievements, it was a glimpse into the heart of a man whose work reflects his deep-
rooted love of life and beauty. I was happy that Bitola had the chance to meet Manasieski.
We should be privileged to be a part of his artistic journey since he has made a lasting impact
on the field of contemporary art through a vivid narrative of his artistic pursuit and evolution.
May Manasijeski’s philosophy, eloquently articulated I nhis words:‘We are children of the sun,
love is the only truth’ resonate forever.
Ljubica Angelova, Bitola 2023