Through evocative oil and acrylic compositions, contemporary artist Dragan blends symbolism, psychological depth, and dreamlike imagery to explore themes of entrapment, transformation, and the search for freedom. His striking series, Boxed In, is not just an artistic expression—it’s a deep, visual exploration of the human condition, inviting viewers to confront their emotional landscapes and challenge the invisible boundaries that often restrict their sense of self. Dragan’s work delves into the spaces between past trauma, present identity, and the future we all strive to create, while questioning the psychological and emotional forces that shape our reality.
Drawing on his personal journey from Bosnia to New York, as well as his deep connection to cultural trauma, his art is a fusion of raw emotion, symbolism, and abstraction, creating a dialogue that transcends personal experience and invites universal reflection. His paintings speak to the psychological barriers we all face, asking us to examine what holds us back, both internally and externally. Selfless Art Gallery invited Dragan to share a personal letter to the future collector of this series—here is what he wrote:
Untitled, 2024, 121.92(h) x 91.44 cm(w), Oil On Canvas
Dear Collector,
I invite you to explore your own inner world through my latest series, Boxed In—an ode to my continued exploration of liberation and the hope within it. These works reflect the interplay between our present selves and our past, as well as the ongoing quest for self-discovery as ever-evolving beings—constantly transforming. I call into question and challenge human conditions by asking, “What is keeping you boxed in?” I examine how feelings of entrapment, limitation, or constraint by behavioral patterns affect the universal human pursuit of true freedom.
Through my dreamlike paintings, created with oil and acrylics, I capture emotional states and moments of introspection. We are often defined by our stories—mine shaped by cultural trauma—but these paintings go beyond that, drawing on the journey of healing through both body and soul, addressing the internal and external self. Much of my work is inspired by intuition, as well as my lived experiences—from growing up in Bosnia to my life now in New York. Through this, I weave in stories from familial histories or subjects—be it friends or close supporters —who find themselves in distress or stagnation, limited by their own minds.
You may see subjects in a washing machine, for example—symbolizing, in a somewhat humorous way, how a situation can spiral out of control and how discomfort can be confronted with humor. Some of my subjects are not fully visible, making it difficult to discern who they are. This is intentional—I want viewers to see themselves in the work, reflecting on or relating to the psychological and emotional depths of each subject. The meaning can be different for everyone; there is no right or wrong answer. People often feel discomfort when looking inward, recognizing the isolation that accompanies such introspection—hence the boxed-in, domestic surroundings.
Sincerely,
Dragan Strukelj
Creator
Top to Bottom: Boy with a Water Gun, 2024, 121.92 (h) x 91.44 (w) cm, Oil On Canvas; Claustrophobia, 2024, 91.44(h) x 121.92 (w) cm, Oil On Canvas; Penumbra,2024, 50.8 (h)x 40.64 (w) cm, Oil On Canvas
As you dive into the Boxed In series, immerse yourself in a world where art transcends the surface to uncover the complexities of the human experience. This series pushes the boundaries of traditional surrealist art, blending emotion, symbolism, and vivid storytelling to offer a raw exploration of identity, constraint, and transformation. Dragan’s work encourages reflection on the invisible forces that shape our lives and challenges the constraints we unknowingly place on ourselves. Step into this captivating visual journey, where each painting holds the key to unlocking new layers of understanding and introspection.
Dragan, your work is truly captivating! The depth and creativity in your paintings are remarkable. I'm particularly drawn to Boxed collection. They resonate on a visceral level and leave a lasting impression. Thank you for sharing your unique vision with the world.