Dragan Aleksi

• • Dragan Aleksić: A Life of Artistic Vision and Resilience**

Dragan Aleksić was a prominent figure in Yugoslavia's avant-garde movements, notably associated with Zenithism in the 1920s. As a writer, artist, and critic, he played a crucial role in merging various art forms through his work with Zenith magazine. His contributions to Dadaism and Constructivism left a lasting impact on both literary and visual arts.

During World War II, Aleksić faced significant challenges. Employed by the collaborationist magazine Novo vreme, he was arrested by the Serbian Gestapo due to a misunderstanding, enduring torture that left him bedridden until his death in 1958. Despite his health struggles, he maintained connections with Radio Belgrade and saw some of his poems published posthumously.

Aleksić's legacy experienced a resurgence in the 1960s when his work was included in Vasko Popa's anthologies. His complete works were compiled into "Dada Tank" in 1978, reviving interest in his contributions. His life is a testament to artistic vision and resilience, bridging early avant-garde movements with enduring cultural impact.