Croatian Artists (02:41)

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In northern Croatia, a woman plays the cymbalom. This region is the birthplace of one of the most revered naïve art movements in the world.

Hlebine, Croatia (03:36)

The town of 1,400 residents, has a high Croatian population. In the 1990s, war is a daily reality, adding context to the peaceful life of a young woman and her grandmother.

Public Gathering (04:56)

Hlebine residents prepare for a celebration; musicians rehearse, and a chicken flees an elderly cook. Folk traditions are integral to Croatian national identity, and each region has its own festivals, songs, and costumes.

Naive Art (01:49)

The art form can be found all over Croatia. An insider discusses the tradition of painting on glass, the work of Ivan Generalic, and the influence of nature.

Self-Taught Wood Carver (09:26)

A farmer and two helpers look for a tree to chop down. The farmer, who comes from a family of artists, uses a chainsaw to sculpt wood; his art reflects the harshness of rural life.

Local Agriculture (02:37)

Croatian farmers work with their hands, contrasting the increased mechanization of farming elsewhere. Produce sold at a market a few kilometers from Hlebene reflects farming practices.

Cymbalom Production (05:05)

A local wine grower also makes cymbaloms. He discusses his relationship with the musical instrument, the resurgence of its popularity, and the creation process.

Wood Art (02:56)

An man whittles delicate flowers, toys, and hats from wood. He discusses the feeling of euphoria he receives from the act of creation.

Hlebine School (02:49)

An administrator explains the history of a school that is over 100-years-old. He discusses art students, naïve paintings, and a mural by Generalic.

Drava River (05:13)

The Drava serves as a boundary between Croatia and Hungary. An artist takes a break from painting and goes fishing; he has always felt close ties to the river.

Glass Art (02:45)

A glass painter describes his creative process; the initial drafting and coloration are the most time-consuming aspects of his work. His art reflects local scenery and folklore.

Mijo Kovacic (06:54)

Many collections around the world contain paintings by the master of naïve art. Kovacic discusses inspirations, his lack of formal training, and advice from Generalic.

Credits: Croatia: The Land of the Naive (00:60)

Credits: Croatia: The Land of the Naive