Podgorica, Montenegro

From 29 May to 12 June 2024, WOMCOM hosted its third artist-in-residence program in Montenegro, providing a dynamic platform for comic artists eager to explore and push the boundaries of their craft. Moving away from the solitary nature often associated with comic creation, the program prioritized collaborative opportunities that fostered idea-sharing and

innovation among residents. The goal was to demonstrate how a single creative solution could manifest in myriad forms.

Through a combination of collective and individual work, residents enhanced their artistic practices by drawing inspiration from diverse movements of deconstruction and reconstruction. Embracing creative constraints served as a catalyst for a deeper understanding of comic grammar, driving innovation and enriching individual artistic expression.

In recognition of the digital age, the program explored the evolving landscape of comics in the digital realm. Artists were

encouraged to harness the unique possibilities of digital communication tools to connect with audiences, share ideas, and discover new avenues for creative expression. With limitless potential, the program embarked on a journey to explore the myriad forms and possibilities offered by digital comics.

The residency mentors, Ester Eszter Szép and Márton Hegedűs, tailored the program methodology to accommodate the specific needs and profiles of the participating artists, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience for all involved.

Following the residency, the artists exhibited their works at the National Library “Radosav Ljumović” and its Stripoteka – a section of the library specialized in comics. The exhibition of the residents’ works was opened on 11 June 2024 at the Cultural and Information Centre “Budo Tomović” (commonly known as KIC) in Podgorica.