Çlirim Ceka

Biography

Date of Birth: February 2, 1945

Place of Birth: Elbasan, Albania

Education: Academy of Fine Arts-Tirana, Albania – Graduated in 1967

Academic experience: Professor at the Academy of Fine Arts-Tirana, Albania (1970-1998)

Early years during the Albanian Socialist Regime:

Çlirim Ceka is an Albanian painter, graphic artist, and illustrator known for his contributions to socialist realism. He graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts-Tirana and later became a professor at the same institution. As a member of the “National Union” of Albanian painters, he hs participated in numerous international exhibitions, showcasing his works in China, Egypt, Kosovo, Austria, France, Italy, and Greece.

Ceka’s artworks can be found in the National

Gallery of Albania, as well as in private collections around the world. He has received

prestigious awards, including the ONUFRI 1994 National Award.

Post the socialist regime and migration to Greece:

Liberated from the constraints of the Socialist Regime that previously dictated the themes and style of his paintings, Ceka embraced abstract art and ventured beyond realism.

Ceka’s artistic focus shifted towards abstract paintings, which allowed him to express himself freely and experiment with various techniques. His works during this period reflect a departure from naturalism and academic realism, instead embracing a more expressive and abstract artistic language.

In 1998, Çlirim Ceka migrated to Thessaloniki, Greece, where he sought further artistic freedom and explored new artistic directions.

Exhibitions:

● Participated in international exhibitions with the “National Union” of Albanian painters in China, Egypt, Kosovo, Austria, France, Italy, and Greece.

● Participated in international exhibitions in Slovenia, Hungary, Italy, Croatia, Greece, andAustria.

● Solo exhibitions in the USA, Italy, Croatia, Romania, Denmark, Albania, and Greece.

Collections:

● National Gallery of Albania: Twenty-two works from the years 1968-1994, including “WeWork and Learn” (1969), “On the Border” (1980), “In Metallurgical” (1983), “Dropullitja”

(1984), “Metalurgu” (1984), and more.

● Art Galleries of Elbasan (three works), Lushnja (one work), and Vlora (one work).

● Private collections in Albania, Greece, USA, France, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Slovenia,

Hungary, Austria, Croatia, Romania, Denmark, Luxembourg, and India.

Awards and Memberships:

● 1994: ONUFRI 1994 National Award

● 1969: National Graphic Arts Award

● Member of E.E.T.E. (Chamber of Visual Arts of Greece)

● Member of the Association of Visual Arts Artists of Northern Greece (S.K.E.T.V.E.)

Variant- 2024 – oil on canvas – 60 x 80 cm

Artist Statement

Throughout my artistic journey, I have embraced the transformative power of art, exploring

various styles, themes, and techniques that reflect my personal evolution as an artist. Born in

Elbasan, Albania, in 1945, I grew up in a family with a deep sense of patriotism, which instilled

in me a passion for self-expression through the medium of art.

My early works, created during the era of the harsh Hoxha regime, were bound by the

ideological constraints of socialist realism. As a young artist, I grappled with the themes of the

working class and the construction of socialism, creating realistic compositions with monumental

tendencies. These pieces, characterized by large dimensions, aimed to convey political

propaganda within the canons of socialist realism. However, the oppressive regime left a

profound impact on my artistic expression, leading to the emergence of expressionistic works

that depicted the struggles, isolation, and terror of the time.

In 1998, I migrated to Thessaloniki, Greece, seeking artistic freedom and liberation from the

constraints of the socialist regime. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in my career, as I

wholeheartedly embraced abstract art, allowing my creativity to flow freely without restrictions.

The vibrant energy of abstract expressionism provided a newfound sense of liberation, enabling

me to explore the power of geometric lines, dynamic movements, and harmonious colors.

My artistic focus in Greece shifted towards creating abstract paintings that reflected the

accumulation of impressions and feelings drawn from my surroundings and personal

experiences. Through expressive figurative works and abstract decorativeness, I aimed to

evoke emotions and invite viewers to engage with the rhythmic lines and dynamic movements

present in my compositions. I also delved into the realm of stylized subjects, incorporating

various portrait styles to create visually captivating pieces.

Participating in international exhibitions across Europe, Asia, and the United States, I had the

opportunity to showcase my abstract works to diverse audiences. These exhibitions provided

platforms for cross-cultural dialogue and allowed me to establish connections with artists from

different backgrounds. Additionally, solo exhibitions in various countries further strengthened my

artistic voice and offered a more intimate experience of my creative journey.

My works from the past 55 years can be found in prestigious collections worldwide, illustrating

the universal appeal and impact of abstract art. Whether displayed in private collections or

esteemed galleries such as the National Gallery of Albania, my paintings have traveled borders,

transcending language and culture to communicate the power of visual expression.

As I continue to evolve as an artist, I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of artistic

conventions, continually exploring new techniques and styles. Through my art, I aim to evoke

emotions, stimulate contemplation, and invite viewers into a world of vibrant colors, dynamic