Zoran Krulj

Zoran Krulj was born in 1957 in Titograd, in the former Yugoslavia (now Podgorica, Montenegro). He began drawing at an early age, initially focusing on cartoon characters, which sparked a lifelong interest in visual expression. After completing secondary school in architecture in Titograd, he graduated from the Faculty of Architecture in Niš. Although trained as an architect, Krulj chose to dedicate his life to painting and pursued formal art education under the guidance of the artist Mitrović. During his studies, he received several awards, including second place at the October Salon, and later first prize in 1996. In 2001, he became a member of ULUS (Association of Fine Artists of Serbia), gaining the status of an independent artist.

Krulj has held over 50 solo exhibitions and participated in more than 150 group exhibitions both in Serbia and internationally. His works have been shown in countries such as Switzerland, Greece, Bulgaria, Turkey, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, South Korea, and the United States. He has also taken part in more than 20 art colonies across Europe and received numerous awards, including multiple honors at the October Salon in Leskovac and the Ex Tempore exhibition in Piran, Slovenia.

His paintings often feature elderly figures, sailors, and women placed in Mediterranean settings, particularly inspired by the ambiance of Herceg Novi. These scenes are enriched with details such as ships, sailboats, old facades, and gates. Krulj’s style is rooted in fantastic realism, infused with a bright Mediterranean spirit. His elongated, stylized figures and poetic compositions reflect a personal visual language that stands apart from contemporary trends. He continues to develop his work with dedication, expanding its visual and conceptual boundaries.