52nd Edition of the 'Slovo Gorčina' Culture Festival Officially Opened in Stolac

(Patria) - The 52nd edition of the culture festival 'Slovo Gorčina' was officially opened at the Radimlja stećak necropolis, with a large number of guests from the world of culture and art, as well as citizens and friends of the festival, while those unable to attend had the opportunity to follow the live broadcast on BHRT. Before the opening, visitors enjoyed pleasant conversation and had the chance to taste wines from the Carski Vinogradi Mostar winery and local specialties.

Delight and joy were expressed by all who continuously and diligently worked on creating this year's festival edition. It is of great importance to develop and live the dream of Mak Dizdar, a vision dating back to the last century, as confirmed in their addresses to those present by the honorary president of the Management Board, Gorčin Dizdar, and Dubravko Barbarić, a member of the Management Board and president of the Festival Organizing Committee.

The authentic and symbolic music of Banja Luka composer David Mastikosa resonated through the necropolis, performed among the stone sleepers skillfully, experiencedly, courageously, and powerfully by Bartolomej Stanković on piano, Andrea Fisher on bass flute, and Snježana Pavićević on alto flute. An exceptional contribution to the atmosphere of the festival's first night was made by the Mixed Choir BKZ Preporod, performing some of the most famous songs, including 'Modra rijeka'. The guest was actor Izudin Bajrović, who was the bearer of Mak Dizdar's poetic word this evening.

The 'Mak Dizdar' award was also presented to the best poets for 2023. On behalf of the expert jury, Nenad Rizvanović addressed the audience, highlighting the importance of the competition, the number and quality of submitted manuscripts, and inviting writers to continue sending their works in the coming years. The first prize was awarded to writer Luca Kozina from Split for the poetry collection 'Woman Spirit and Her Room'. Rizvanović noted that it is top-tier poetry, stylistically, technically, and thematically grounded. Kozina expressed gratitude and privilege for receiving this significant recognition.

After the award ceremony, the audience attended a conversation with prominent Bosnian poet and president of the PEN Center of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Asmir Kujović, moderated by Kristina Ljevak. The poet spoke about his creative chronotope, wartime events, and their impact on his identity and writing maturity. Furthermore, he discussed the current state of culture and the direction in which it is developing.

Following the conclusion of the program at the Radimlja site, the gathering continued at the after-party event, held in front of the main festival center Šipad. Those present were entertained by renowned Bosnian musician Zlijay, aka Mixmaster Zlee.

The festival continues today and lasts until July 30.