Jadrana

Studio Tabac, Stockholm.
24.08–14.09 2024

Composer: Mike Sheridan

In the exhibition Jadrana, Nadja Brečević explores the sea as a central motif, examining its dual role as both a source of tranquility and unpredictability. The title Jadrana, derived from the Croatian term "Jadran" for the Adriatic Sea, signifies a personal connection to this body of water and its cultural significance. Through photography and moving images, Brečević captures the sea's dynamic nature, mirroring her fascination with its ability to engage and stimulate the senses. The exhibition offers an immersive exploration of the sea's evocative presence.

Brečević’s artistic process extends beyond photography as a practice, engaging in the transformation of photographs through techniques such as hand coloring and etching. These techniques add a tactile quality to each photograph, highlighting the intricate textures and patterns that emerge from the water’s surface. It also encourages an extended reflection on each image.

Jadrana intertwines visual and sonic elements to capture the multifaceted experiences evoked by the sea. In collaboration with composer Mike Sheridan, the exhibition incorporates sound as an integral aspect. A central feature is the sine-wave quality of the Cristal glass plectra, where water is essential to tone production. Instruments with hand-bent metallic amplifiers are struck with mallets at resonance points, while hydrophonic sound recordings reveal unique high-frequency behaviours.

Photo: Theo Elias