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In the vibrant heart of Čačak, Serbia, the 10th edition of our beloved DUK Festival marked a jubilant milestone. The DUK Festival project is a street art event that lasts for ten years. The aim of the project is to renovate city facades, pacify public spaces, and combat hate speech by painting murals. Over the years DUK Festival painted over 120 murals, organised 6 music festivals, numerous exhibitions, skateboarding competitions, and other cultural events becoming a leading organisation in the region for urban cultures and one of the leading street art festivals in the Balkans.

This year, we had the distinct honor of hosting Japanese artists for the second time, made possible through the auspices of the EU-Japan Fest Japan Committee. This collaboration not only adorned our city with new murals but also enriched our cultural landscape and forged lasting connections across continents.

From the outset, the prospect of welcoming SUIKO filled us with anticipation and excitement. His unique artistic perspectives and cultural influences promised to lend a fresh dimension to our festival. As organizers, we were eager to facilitate an exchange that would transcend artistic boundaries and foster mutual understanding.

Under the expert guidance of SUIKO, the mural came to life through the meticulous application of spray techniques, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese motifs with modern artistic elements. The project unfolded with careful planning, active community involvement, and a steadfast commitment to achieving high artistic standards. SUIKO’s meticulous approach was evident in every detail, employing an array of measuring tools, foils, tapes, and other techniques to ensure unparalleled precision and mesmerizing intricacy in his creation. The result is a stunning testament to both cultural heritage and contemporary artistic innovation, captivating viewers with its harmonious blend of precision and artistry.

The activities that unfolded over the festival period exceeded our expectations in every regard. Collaborating closely with Japanese artists such as SUIKO and BAKIBAKI last year was a revelation. Through shared moments of planning, painting, and cultural exchange, we discovered both striking similarities and delightful differences in our artistic approaches and cultural traditions. These interactions not only deepened our appreciation for Japanese art but also broadened our horizons, offering us new insights into global artistic trends and techniques.

The outcomes of this collaboration were nothing short of transformative. The cityscape of Čačak was rejuvenated with stunning new murals that now grace our streets, each telling a story of creativity and collaboration. These artworks serve as enduring testaments to the power of art to transcend language barriers and unite communities. Moreover, the festival itself experienced heightened interest and attendance, drawing art enthusiasts and cultural ambassadors from near and far.

Looking ahead, the future prospects are bright. The success of this year’s festival has laid a strong foundation for continued international collaborations. We envision further exchanges with artists from diverse backgrounds, enriching our cultural tapestry and cementing Čačak’s reputation as a hub of artistic innovation and cultural diversity. The bonds forged with our Japanese counterparts are sure to endure, paving the way for future projects that will continue to captivate and inspire.

Our festival’s collaboration with SUIKO has been a remarkable success, inspiring a continuation of our partnership. Together, we have explored the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary art, culminating in a vibrant celebration of creativity. Looking ahead, we are excited about the prospect of expanding our collaboration to include a mural in Hiroshima, SUIKO’s hometown, showcasing his profound connection to the city and its artistic legacy. Moreover, we eagerly anticipate welcoming other talented artists from Hiroshima, fostering cultural exchange and enriching our festival with diverse perspectives and styles from across Japan. This ongoing dialogue promises to further enrich our community and deepen our commitment to artistic excellence and cultural exchange.

In conclusion, our experience with SUIKO at the 10th DUK Festival has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has reaffirmed our belief in the transformative power of art and cultural exchange. To future artists and organizers alike, we extend an invitation: seize every opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives, for in doing so, you will not only enrich your own artistic practice but also contribute to a more connected and harmonious global community.

Let us continue to paint our cities with the colors of creativity and collaboration.