top of page
JAZ.jpg

Malapala

Maja Lesjak Gavriloska

Maja Lesjak-Gavriloska is an artist who breathes life into the colors and strokes that dance across diverse canvases, from traditional art pieces to sailboards and walls, embodying a vibrant passion that resonates with each observer. Her creation, Malapala, a mysterious character, invites viewers into a world of exploration, capturing the ebbs and flows of life's emotional and physical landscapes. Immerse yourself in Maja’s captivating journey, where art and life waltz in a harmonious dance, beckoning you to delve deeper into the boundless realms of creativity and self-discovery.

From Childhood Doodles to Canvases of Life

Born in 1978 in Celje, Maja Lesjak-Gavriloska is a designer, painter, illustrator, wife, and mother of four children: Juna, Lukas Kosta, and the twins Ruben and Nando. She currently resides in Velenje. She pursued her studies at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design (ALU), specializing in Visual Communication. She describes drawing as an integral part of her life from as far back as she can remember: "My favorite pastime was doodling in my notebook, where imagination took flight, and I created my own imaginary world where anything was possible. There weren't many toys back then, so I would draw them myself."

Maja’s Journey Through Art and Ambition

Her parents supported her desire for an artistic career but also made it clear that if she chose this path, it wouldn't be easy. She recalls, "That's why I studied construction for a year and realized what I really wanted and that low construction wasn't for me. I decided to study Visual Communication at ALU. I was offered opportunities for work quite quickly because graphic design was on the rise at the time. However, I soon realized that it was one industry and that I was quite creatively dependent on clients and employers." Today, her passion is drawing and painting.

People Are the Best Inspiration

Embark on a journey with Maja, supported by her family’s unwavering belief in her artistic ambitions despite the foreseen challenges. Walk with her through the exploratory paths of construction, a brief sojourn that solidified her unwavering resolve to pursue her true passion. Dive into the dynamic world of Visual Communication at ALU, where Maja swiftly seized emerging opportunities in the burgeoning field of graphic design, a testament to her exceptional talent and creative flair.

The Girl Named Malapala

The most recognizable motif of our interviewee over the years has become a mysterious character, a girl, sometimes cheerful and playful, other times contemplative and dreamy, observing the audience from her place on the canvas. Maja explains: "She's probably a big part of me, so she's kind of my alter ego. She's a being that came from another planet and now walks among us, searching for our hearts. She has the ability to transform from a child to an adult, sometimes even changing gender or taking on the appearance of an animal. She's mysterious and at the same time very honest and exposed. With her big eyes, she gazes into our hearts and encourages us to find the truth within ourselves."

Unconventional Exhibitions and Gatherings

The artist doesn't exhibit often, but when the opportunity arises, she always enjoys showing her work: "I particularly like unconventional types of exhibitions that are more relaxed and lively." Earlier this summer, she organized an open house event in her studio, where people could explore every corner of her space, browse her artworks, and perhaps acquire something for themselves. But do people appreciate the works of local artists enough? "Unfortunately, not enough. They often compare them to mass-produced items that lack value, just material clutter. People often overlook the key factor of art, which is that by buying a piece of artwork, they give themselves or someone something that has no expiration date, is timeless, and brings happiness in the long run."

Maja's Dreams for the Future

She prefers not to set specific long-term goals because that can lead to disappointment. However, she has two clear goals: to publish an illustrated picture book featuring the character Mala Pala and to paint a massive mural on the facade of a building. "I also dream of having my own gallery someday, open to all types of art and artists, including those who haven't graduated from an art academy but create with the same passion because art is for everyone. I always find inspiration for my creations in others and support local artists, and I think we could spend more time together and connect."

Contact

I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.

+386 51 387 616

bottom of page