Anto Jerković
(1958-2005)
Ignoto II, 1996
acrylic on canvas
100x8x300 cm
MG- 6833

Anto Jerković (1958-2005) wrote messages on large canvases that were painted over in layers of monochrome colour. He wrote texts, sentences and words in Roman capitals in gold or silver, while he painted the background in several layers of ultramarine industrial blue. Jerković’s choice of blue automatically invites comparison with the work of painter Yves Klein. This, however, is not about copying a concept, but about a common reference to the symbolic meaning of the colour blue. Jerković’s blue monochromes have no figurative or abstract content; the emphasis is on the contemplative, immaterial emanation of colour. The colour blue is calming; it is the colour of the sky, infinity and harmony. Roman capitals – which are most often seen on public monuments – give Jerković’s biblical quotations in gold the meaning of eternal truths. Anto Jerković was an artist who, through his expression, connected hitherto incompatible artistic concepts – Yves Klein’s formal expression and classical Christian tradition – which made him a true post-conceptual and post-modern artist.
Anto Jerković graduated in 1983 from the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb under Prof. Raul Goldoni. After having graduated, he worked as an associate at painters Ljubo Ivančić and Nikola Reiser’s master workshop until 1986. At the end of the 1980s, he lived in Paris and Rome, where he turned to Post-Conceptual Art. Throughout his career, he expressed himself in other mediums as well, such as installations and performances. He also performed social-minded actions in public space.

Text: Željko Marciuš, museum consultant of the National Museum of Modern Art © National Museum of Modern Art, Zagreb
Translated by: Ana Janković
Photo: Goran Vranić © National Museum of Modern Art, Zagreb

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