Girl from Venice began as a demonstration for Hrvoje's students before naturally evolving into a finished painting in its own right. Inspired by the richness of Renaissance portraiture, the work celebrates the timeless dialogue between artistic tradition and contemporary culture.
Rather than recreating the past, the painting builds upon it. Hrvoje embraces the expressive brushwork, warmth and quiet presence found in the portraits of the Venetian masters before introducing a distinctly modern intervention—the three iconic stripes running across the subject's shoulder. This unexpected detail transforms the work into a conversation between centuries of visual culture, where classical painting meets the language of contemporary fashion.
The contrast between old and new invites viewers to reconsider the relationship between tradition and innovation. Rather than existing in opposition, the two become complementary forces, demonstrating how great artistic ideas continue to evolve through each generation while remaining rooted in their history.
Ultimately, Girl from Venice is a celebration of artistic continuity, reminding us that the most meaningful contemporary work often grows from a deep understanding and appreciation of the past.
Original Artwork
Oil on paper (Ulje na papiru)
40 × 30 cm
2023
Launching at Pittenweem Arts Festival - Scotland, UK.
This artwork will be available to purchase online from Saturday 1 August 2026, the opening day of our exhibition at Pittenweem Arts Festival.
Until then, we invite you to explore the collection and join us in Scotland for Hrvoje Majer's Scottish debut.
Girl from Venice began as a demonstration for Hrvoje's students before naturally evolving into a finished painting in its own right. Inspired by the richness of Renaissance portraiture, the work celebrates the timeless dialogue between artistic tradition and contemporary culture.
Rather than recreating the past, the painting builds upon it. Hrvoje embraces the expressive brushwork, warmth and quiet presence found in the portraits of the Venetian masters before introducing a distinctly modern intervention—the three iconic stripes running across the subject's shoulder. This unexpected detail transforms the work into a conversation between centuries of visual culture, where classical painting meets the language of contemporary fashion.
The contrast between old and new invites viewers to reconsider the relationship between tradition and innovation. Rather than existing in opposition, the two become complementary forces, demonstrating how great artistic ideas continue to evolve through each generation while remaining rooted in their history.
Ultimately, Girl from Venice is a celebration of artistic continuity, reminding us that the most meaningful contemporary work often grows from a deep understanding and appreciation of the past.
Original Artwork
Oil on paper (Ulje na papiru)
40 × 30 cm
2023
Launching at Pittenweem Arts Festival - Scotland, UK.
This artwork will be available to purchase online from Saturday 1 August 2026, the opening day of our exhibition at Pittenweem Arts Festival.
Until then, we invite you to explore the collection and join us in Scotland for Hrvoje Majer's Scottish debut.