Upon the proposal of the Faculty of Fine Arts Council, Doc. Dr. Maja Šofranac was recently honored with the prestigious annual University of Montenegro Prize for her outstanding contribution to the development of artistic research work and the international positioning of the University of Montenegro.
Šofranac was recognized for her key role in promoting international cooperation and positioning the Faculty of Fine Arts (FLU) on the global scene, where she working as the Vice-Dean for International Cooperation. Through her longstanding commitment, she has achieved remarkable results in establishing and developing partnerships with European higher education institutions in the field of arts, making FLU one of the leading faculties not only within UCG but also in the broader European educational space.
One of the key elements of her contribution is the organization of staff and student mobility, as well as the development of numerous project activities, international art exhibitions, and festivals. Just during the academic year 2022/2023, 28 FLU students participated in mobility programs at European partner institutions, while 12 visiting students from abroad participated in mobility at FLU. Additionally, a total of 17 outbound mobilities of teaching and administrative staff from FLU were realized, while 23 teachers and colleagues from partner institutions participated in mobility at FLU.
Initiatives such as the organization of the IPAF 1st International Performance Festival "RE-ACTION," which was first held in Montenegro in collaboration with the Albertina Academy of Fine Arts from Turin, stand out particularly. This festival aimed to promote performance and contemporary art and stimulate dialogue between the art scenes of Montenegro and Italy.
In addition, Šofranac was a key figure in organizing international exhibitions such as "Synergy of Opposites," the result of artistic research by teachers and long-term collaboration with the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. Her work also included collaboration with the Faculty of Fine Arts in Lisbon and the Faculty of Fine Arts in Malaga through artistic-research projects "Reimagining Mediterranean" and "Axis Mediterranean."
Her engagement was not limited to artistic projects; she also played a crucial role in establishing new partnerships within the Erasmus+ program. During the past year, four new contracts were signed, including the National Academy of Arts in Oslo, the Hungarian University of Fine Arts in Budapest, and partnerships with the University of Dubrovnik and Ljubljana.
Her contribution has not only enriched the working community at FLU but has also contributed to the internationalization of the faculty, positioning it as a truly international center for artistic creation and cultural exchange. Through her work, Šofranac has significantly contributed to the affirmation and elevation of the University of Montenegros reputation internationally, promoting the visibility of the artistic work of FLU professors and students.
Her tireless enthusiasm and dedication have laid the groundwork for further development and internationalization of FLU, making it not only a locally recognized institution but also a globally esteemed center for artistic education and cultural exchange.
