Women In Macedonian Architecture: Rebuilding Skopje

Saturday, August 9th from 6 to 9 pm: Reception for the exhibition Women In Macedonian Architecture: Rebuilding Skopje

Women in Macedonian Architecture: Rebuilding Skopje

The second half of the twentieth century marked a pivotal shift for women in Macedonian society. Amid a new political, economic, and social landscape, women broke barriers in numerous professions once dominated by men. As a comprehensive project of modernization and emancipation swept the nation, demanding a radical transformation of its cities, women architects stood as equal partners in shaping this new reality.

The contribution of women to the architectural scene of the Socialist Republic of Macedonia was profound, particularly during the post-earthquake reconstruction of Skopje. The 1960s, 70s, and early 80s were a period of intense creativity for pioneers like Mimoza Tomikj, Vera Kjosevska, Ljubinka Malenkova, Olga Papesh, Vasilka Ladinska and many others.

These women were educated in the esteemed architectural schools of Belgrade, Zagreb, and Ljubljana, which were direct conduits for modernist thought from European centers such as Paris, Berlin, and Vienna. Upon returning to Skopje, they became instrumental in shaping the local architectural scene, championing modernist ideals among a new generation.

In light of the ongoing global conversation about the role of women in society and the architectural profession, this exhibition seeks to explore, document, and celebrate the legacy of these remarkable planners, architects, and designers. Our aim is to bring greater visibility and appreciation to their work, ensuring the rich cultural heritage they created is recognized and valued by future generations.

Authors: Ana Ivanovska Deskova, Vladimir Deskov, Jovan Ivanovski, Tea Damjanovska, Mihajlo Stojanovski