NE:BITEF 2026_The Visual Beginnings of BITEF

Visual BITEF ran alongside BITEF from 1968 to 1973. Biljana Tomić initiated it in collaboration with Irina Subotić and Ješa Denegri. The Visual BITEF emerged from the need to present the latest developments in the visual arts alongside new and experimental theatre practices. The program included exhibitions, happenings, performances, experimental films, actions, lectures, and other forms that pushed the boundaries between different art disciplines.

The Visual BITEF brought together the Yugoslav and international avant-garde scenes. During its first three years, the program was based at the Atelje 212 Gallery, before most of its activities moved to the newly opened Student Cultural Center (SKC) in 1971. The Visual BITEF was one of the most important spaces in which a new understanding of the artwork, the body, space, time, and the audience developed in Belgrade, and an important precursor to the conceptual and performance art scene of the 1970s.

doNot:Miss!

12:00–18:00 | Screening of Conversations

Every hour, we will screen a conversation conducted by Mia David with art historians Biljana Tomić and Irina Subotić, Professor Emerita. Some of the artists who participated in the program will also join us during the screenings.

Production: Galerija Novembar and SCEN Centar

Curator: Mia David
Micro-scene: “Miljenko Dereta” Space
Address: Dobračina 55
When: 20 September, 12:00–18:00
Zone: A