“Whose legacy is etched in stone here?” I ask. The Mikić-Gedenkstein stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship. It honors Slavko Mikić, a dedicated artisan. Mikić devoted his life to the ancient craft of art casting. He understood that art’s beauty could be immortalized through metal.
Mikić was born in Bosnia in 1977. He moved to Vienna as a young man. There, he trained with Alfred Zöttl. Mikić gained invaluable experience abroad. He worked with renowned foundries in Croatia, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, and Hungary. Later, he ventured out on his own.
Mikić saw art casting as a way to give unique quality to artworks using durable bronze. Each new commission presented a challenge. He used this as motivation to refine every step. Mikić aimed to preserve the artist’s expression. He focused on the surface. He wanted to capture the marks of the creative process as authentically as possible.
Mikić poured his heart into preparing each project. He constantly improved his materials and workflow. This ensured optimal results at fair prices. He welcomed changes and offered many options for patination. This allowed him to tailor the artwork’s overall appearance to his client’s wishes.
Mikić’s workshop was located in Hof am Leithaberge. He invited people to visit him. After making an appointment, he offered advice on casting projects. He also provided planning and preparation for installation. If desired, he would also handle the installation itself.
The Mikić-Gedenkstein reminds us of his passion. It shows his dedication to preserving art’s beauty through metal. The stone honors a craftsman who saw challenges as chances. He strived for perfection in every piece he created. He has left an enduring mark on the world of art casting. His legacy lives on in every bronze sculpture he helped bring to life.