Jelena Zalović

Groove is in the heart

• Jelena's first inspiration came from a pop music video
• The first product she made was a painted, hand-sewn bracelet for men
• She wants to use the ancient Slavic Glagolitic script in her new designs

A creative soul, Jelena Zalović was always meant to work with leather. After completing her MFA in ceramic art, she delved into the works of clay for a while, but her wish to experiment with materials took her to leather. At first, she was adding leather details to her ceramics, but soon after she switched the craft completely. Learning from old masters and devotedly honing her skills, she developed a unique style by making leather bags, shoes and other fashion details. In 2008, Jelena opened her own workshop and today she creates leather items taking orders from individuals and companies. “My special skill is to ‘get inside the head of the person ordering, to discover their style and needs, and to find the ideal solution for them” she says, as she plays the game of design and craft.

Interview

©Bojan Milovanović

©Jelena Zalovic

When did you think leather could be your profession?

I remember two important moments. First, when I say the music video “Groove is in the Heart” by Deee-Lite. I just had to make an even crazier pair of shoes than I saw and I did – from a pair I destroyed. Second, when I made a leather bracelet for my friend’s birthday by recycling an old sofa in 1998.

Does your work have a connection with your native region?

Yes, I like to explore recent and old traditions. At this moment I am learning about the Glagolitic script, an ancient Slavic alphabet, and I am planning to use it as an ornament because the shape of the letter is very inspirational.

Are there any other traditional elements in your work?

I like to use traditional motifs and patterns when I decorate products. I quite enjoy redesigning parts of our national costumes such as “šajkača” – a traditional Serbian hat, “jelek” – a vest-like female garment, or “čutura” – a traditional watering can, recreating them in futuristic style.

What do people might not know about your craft?

What people can’t really know is that some leatherworking techniques require a lot of strength in the fingers and hands due to the thickness or resilience of the material. That’s why we get blisters and each one of them has its own story.

Jelena Zalović is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1998

Works

©Bojan Milovanović

©Bojan Milovanović

©Bojan Milovanović

©Bojan Milovanović

©Bojan Milovanović

Where