No, these aren't the monuments of some ancient extraterrestrial civilization. The above structures were actually commissioned by former Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito in the 60s and 70s to commemorate sites where WWII battles took place and concentration camps. While the structures today remain weather-beaten and somewhat drab, there remains a kind of futuristic quality to them as well.
These images were taken by Antwerp-based photographer Jan Kempenaers in his new SPOMENIK Book, which was published by Roma Publications.
"Looking at the photographs, one must admit to a certain embarrassment," says photographer Willem Jan Neutelings in its introduction. "We see the powerful beauty of the monumental sculptures and we catch ourselves forgetting the victims in whose name they were built. This is in no way a reproach to the photographer, but rather attests to the strength of the images."
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Socialist Monument Tourism
- There is an opportunity to create guided tours and experiences around these unusual and overlooked Communist-era sculptures.
- Futuristic Memorial Design
- As urban areas continue to remember their troubled past, they will seek new and inventive ways to design memorials that both respect the past and point to the future.
- Political Activism Art
- As society becomes more politically active, artists will begin to create new works of art that comment on past and current government structures and policies.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Tourism
- Companies that specialize in unique travel experiences and tours could capitalize on the potential for guided tours of these unique structures.
- Architecture & Design
- Architects and designers can draw inspiration from these monuments to create new and innovative designs for public spaces and memorials.
- Art & Photography
- Fine art and photography markets have an opportunity to showcase work that highlights the political and social context surrounding these structures.
