“Human Figure” by Sejdi Kaplanaj – expressing human diversity through painting

We inform you that on April 3, 2025, at 19:00, the exhibition of Sejdi Kaplanaj, titled “Human Figure,” will be opened at the Chifte Hamam Gallery.

Sejdi Kaplanaj is a visual artist from Kosovo (born in 1956). He graduated and obtained a master’s degree in painting from the Faculty of Arts in Pristina under the mentorship of Musli Muliqi. He is a representative of abstract expressionism from the 1980s to the present. His latest series of acrylic paintings, “Human Figure,” will be presented at the Chifte Hamam, featuring around 40 works in various formats. The exhibition generally speaks about human diversity through painting. Through his works, Kaplanaj represents mankind by addressing themes of human values, emotions, and society. Each piece is a profound reflection of human diversity, a journey that explores the different dimensions of nature and individual experiences, expressed through colors and forms. Colors play an important role, as they are not just aesthetic elements but also tools for expressing emotions, identities, and various situations that people experience in everyday life. From warm colors representing passion, sensitivity, and human connections, to cool shades that reflect loneliness, insecurity, or reflection, each painting is a rich and diverse story that captures the viewer’s attention and encourages deeper contemplation of human nature.

The theme “Human Figures”; is an open exploration of human diversity, encompassing not only emotions and experiences but also various cultural, social, and emotional aspects of individuals. Every person is unique, yet we all share common experiences that connect us as a species. This exhibition provides an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of human nature and appreciate the beauty of change and the richness each individual brings to society.

Each figure presented in this exhibition is a personal interpretation of what it means to be human in today’s world.

“The paintings are not simply portraits but creations representing the internal journey of individuals, their confrontation with realities, and the struggle to find a true identity. By using acrylic on canvas, I have the opportunity to play with different layers, creating movement and dispersion of colors that reflect the diversity of thoughts and emotions that people experience.

This exhibition is a call to look deeper into what makes us human and how we can better understand the diversity that exists within each individual. My paintings are a bridge between people and an opportunity to realize that, despite our differences, we are all part of a rich mosaic, connected through our shared sensitivity and experiences.

I hope this exhibition sparks reflection and creates a space for sharing thoughts and emotions, inviting visitors to “Human Figure”; not only as art but as an opportunity to better connect with and understand both themselves and others”, says Kaplanaj.

The exhibition will be on display until April 13, 2025, and the curator is Narona Luma Veseli.

Biography

Sejdi Kapllanaj was born on May 18, 1956, in Gllareva-Klinë, Kosovo, in big family with average income.

His journey as an artist began in his hometown, where he completed his primary education before continuing his secondary education at the Technical School in Pejë, specializing in Interior Architecture for four years. Driven by his passion for artistic expression, Kapllanaj pursued studies at the Academy of Arts at the University of Pristina in 1977, where he immersed himself in the world of painting under the mentorship of the esteemed professor Muslim Mulliqi. It was here that Kapllanaj developed his skills, laying the foundation for a fruitful career in art. During his studies, he self-financed by working in various parts of Europe as a portrait artist during summer breaks, including Greece, Croatia, and Italy. In these countries, he also participated in several collective exhibitions. In the years 1983/84, while serving as a soldier in the former Yugoslavia, he held two exhibitions during his stay.

In March 2001, Kapllanaj was awarded the distinguished title of Master of Painting, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the art world with his thesis titled ;”National Tragedy”; at the University of Prishtina. After completing his studies, Kapllanaj dedicated himself to cultivating the creative talents of students as an art teacher in his hometown for twenty-five years until 2002. Afterward, he continued his work as an independent artist. He participated in exhibitions abroad, mainly in Italy, where he spent most of his life working as a painter. He lives and creates in Kosovo, in his studio, as well as in Italy.

In November 2024, he was part of the “Expo Ferrara”; Biennale in Ferrara, Italy, with one of his paintings

selected from the ;”Human Figures”; series, where the jury included notable names such as Myrta Merlino,

Marco Tardelli, Edoardo Sylos Labini, and Vittorio Sgarbi.

His profound explorations of themes resonated deeply with the audience, earning him recognition and praise both locally and internationally. He has participated in numerous group exhibitions, both within the country and abroad.