Slovenian artist Vanja Bućan (b. 1973) obtained a degree in Sociology from the University of Ljubljana and pursued a career as a humanitarian worker in the NGO sector, before graduating in Documentary Photography from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague. Following her studies, Bućan gradually moved away from documentary-based work and the direct presentation of narratives. Her focus shifted towards staged photography, a medium through which she can manipulate viewer perception and explore deeper, more intricate themes.

Bućan’s work is distinctive, characterised by a rich tapestry of allegories and metaphors that convey complex social perspectives, while interrogating both the representational potential and artifice inherent to photography. She meticulously crafts or reconfigures her photographs, whether by carefully staging her subjects or transforming her photographs into new photographic compositions by adding props or other elements. Through these compositions, she constructs multifaceted realities that result in visually rich expressions. The resulting work invites interpretation, shaped by the individual sensibilities and experiences of the viewer.

Bućan has received numerous accolades, among them the Ringturm Wrapping project in Vienna (2023), the LensCulture Critics’ Choice Award (2020), the Excellent Photographer Award at the Lishui Photography Festival, China (2019) and the LensCulture Exposure Award (2015). Her work has been featured in significant international group exhibitions, biennials, art fairs and solo shows including at Kunst Haus Wien, the Benaki Museum (as part of the Athens Photo Festival), Bieler Fototage, Circulation(s) Festival, CAFA Art Museum Beijing, Lishui Art Museum, Photo London, Photo Basel, Talent Latent, Viennacontemporary, Vento Solar and Leica Gallery Wetzlar.