Matej Bogdanovski

This months cover, original photo
by Matej Bogdanovski, digital augmentation
by K.K.W

Digital Dissent, from Skopje. By K.K.W

In a world where almost anyone can purchase a digital camera and easily take a picture, then enhance it via "photoshop", i-photo, etc, this problem (& it is a problem) has an adverse effect. It pushes artists/photographers to find new ways to get their point across, and create powerful new works to engage those around them.

Matej's current facebook profile photo,
image courtesy of the artist.

From his subtle and startling enlargement of various statues in Skopje's public sectors (Vo senkata na mladite), to his clever comic-book word balloon add-in's that never fail to strike a cord in his viewers. Bogdanovski is becoming the prince of digital-dissent with a distinct style thats amazing to look at; taking a firm stand against aspects within his capital he finds disturbing, or just plain wrong. 

Center of Skopje, image courtesy of the artist.
Part of "Skopje 2014" project (Vo senkata na Mladite)

There's a strong similarity to the work of "street-artists" like Banksy, Blek le Rat, and Jacek Tylicki, a way of using public space, structures, buildings and or artwork erected there to alter public perception (digital activism). He at times will also use pop-culture references - "Lord of the rings", "Star-Wars" (see image above, bottom right corner) etc, and references to problems within his own culture (entertainment piracy). 

In a world thats becoming more absorbed the net-scape and social-media platforms, where new identities are formed and cool characters a born, it the perfect place for the prince of digital-dissent to hold court and roam free. 

Recent arch added to Skopje, part of "Skopje 2014" project.
Image courtesy of the artist.

Statue of Alexander the great, Image courtesy of the artist.
Part of "Skopje 2014" project (Vo senkata na Mladite)

Image courtesy of the artist.

If you would like to know more, go to:www.facebook.com/matej.bogdanovski?sk=wall, or:www.studiophoenix.blogspot.com/2012/05/matej-bogdanovski-comics-illustration.html. "Men's Prelude Road Bike" (Google Affiliate Ad)Polaris Ranger Men's Mountain Bike - 26" - Mountain & Hybrid Bikes (Google Affiliate Ad)"Men's 7-Speed Touring Cruiser" (Google Affiliate Ad)"Loop 7 Speed Folding Bike" (Google Affiliate Ad)