What began as a search for forgotten old objects for the home has become a new passion. The ceramicist duo uses old vintage porcelain and gives it a new, modern look. Every brushstroke is done by hand, as is the application of 24-carat gold. Sustainability plays an important role for the duo – and not just in terms of the materials used. They manufacture their products in small batches and use discarded objects as often as possible to avoid any waste. As children, they once dreamed of saving the world – today they save old porcelain and give it a second life.
© Courtesy of the artists
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I live in the center of Belgrade. My neighborhood is called Upper Dorcol. I am close to Tasmajdan Park and Bajloni Market. The Remake Studio is currently located nearby in the beautiful street Gundulicev venac 24.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
Cycling around Ada Ciganlija from 25 May. Walking in the Lower Kalemegdan. There are many beautiful mountains and places to relax in the surrounding area. My favourite is Rtnj, which is only a 2-hour drive from Belgrade. I also like to go to the village of Krcedin in summer, where you can rent houses with pools to escape the city. Also the Macura Museum in Novi Banovci, Deliblatska Pescara, the Golubac Fortress … In the city itself, besides nature, I also escape to numerous cultural events – Kinoteka, both new and old, the Auteur Film Festival, Fest, Belgrade Dance Festival, festivals at the city’s markets, theatre, open-air cinema – rooftop cinema on Dom Vojske, and many others. When I really want to relax without leaving the city, I like to walk the streets of Belgrade and look up. I am always surprised by the beautiful old buildings and neglected architecture. Sometimes I look at entrances, which can be beautiful in such unexpected places.
© Ljubomir Zarkovic
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
We are currently experiencing massive student protests in our city and our country against corrupt politicians and the government. Students are blocking all universities across the country – it is their legal right to provoke institutions to do their job. This is a big moment in the history of our city. The citizens of Belgrade stand by them, guided by their energy and light.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
I will focus only on the visual part. In terms of appearance, many beautiful buildings have been demolished and not renovated, and many buildings have been built that in my opinion do not belong in Belgrade, at least not the way I like it.
In terms of progress for the better, the large number of foreign nationals, especially during Corona, has led to the opening of many new, different places and Belgrade has once again shown that it is a good host and has created its characteristic fusion of flavours and smells.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
– M-ishka handcrafts the most beautiful espadrilles and bags
– Damsel in Distress Lingerie is the only store in Belgrade that exclusively makes luxury handmade underwear
– Lalicabg is a designer shop, handmade gray wardrobes with an authentic expression
– Dulsineja sells handmade hats with a modernist twist
– Magdalenak produces and designs the finest handmade footwear
– Dub-vintage store Belgrade offers old vintage furniture
© M-ishka
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
I think that the greatest asset of Belgrade is its people. Humour and that special something that makes you think that anything is possible. There are a lot of people on the streets and the city is constantly vibrant, especially at night. The eclecticism of this city, from beauty to despair, is what never ceases to amuse me. In my opinion, the lively markets are the heart of the city – the flower sellers on the street, the local butchers, the old bookshops, the antique shops.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
– Koordinata Street, a Streetfood restaurant
– Pretop – bread&schwein&champagne
– Ispeci pa reci, a pastry shop
– Sharlo bakery sells the best bread in town
© Ispeci pa Reci
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
– Whats App
– Viber
– Instagram
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
– Radar (Instagram)
– Mint (Instagram)
– Kreni promeni (Instagram)
– N1
– Radio Aparat
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
Air pollution and unplanned demolition of old buildings as well as the construction of new ones.
© Dusan Pokusevski
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?
Although I’ve travelled a lot around the world, I’ve never lived anywhere other than Belgrade. All my ideas of other places I could live in are pure fantasy, because I don’t know what life is like in other places. But when I close my eyes, I see myself in Italy, eating pasta, sitting in a town square and listening to the sounds of the street.
© Courtesy of the artists
