Swiss-Croat’s Zagreb journey in first solo photo exhibition

Over a decade ago, Swiss-born Doris Barić moved to Zagreb to study tourism and hotel management, immersing herself in the city’s rich cultural and urban life.

What began as an academic and professional journey in the tourism industry gradually transformed into an artistic exploration.

Now, on March 22, 2025, Doris will open her first solo photography exhibition, Moj Akromatični Zagreb, at the Fotoklub Zagreb.

Portrait of Doris Barić by David Stević

Capturing the Soul of Zagreb

For 13 years, Doris has roamed the streets and venues of Zagreb with her camera, capturing fleeting moments of city life—its people, its streets, and its rhythm.

As a dedicated member of the Fotoklub Zagreb since 2016, she has exhibited in various group shows both in Croatia and internationally. However, Moj Akromatični Zagreb marks the first time she will showcase her vision in a solo setting.

(Photo: Doris Barić)

The exhibition presents a carefully curated selection of black and white photographs, emphasizing the essence of light, shadow, and composition.

Stripped of colour, the images bring Zagreb’s contrasts and emotions to the forefront—whether through the diversity of its people, the rawness of its urban landscape, or the intricate details found in its museums.

(Photo: Doris Barić)

A New Artistic Chapter

Although photography has been a part of her life since childhood, Doris never imagined it would become her primary focus.

Having worked in the tourism sector for years, her connection to Zagreb initially revolved around hospitality and cultural promotion.

However, the city’s dynamic art scene and her deep engagement with photography gradually led her down a different path—one that prioritizes creativity over commerce.

(Photo: Doris Barić)

“In tourism, I used to package Zagreb through words and experiences. Now, I tell its story through images, focusing on simplicity and the little magical moments of everyday life,” Doris explains. “I take my camera everywhere, so the hardest part of this exhibition was selecting the final images. That’s why I decided to experiment with different formats.”

(Photo: Doris Barić)

Moj Akromatični Zagreb is not just a personal retrospective but also an invitation for viewers to see the city through a different lens—one that celebrates simplicity, contrast, and the beauty of the “Zeitgeist.” Along the way, Doris has encountered and captured many creative minds, including film producer Dana Budisavljević, writer Damir Karakaš, singer Mirela Remi Priselac and art model Josip Joško Tešija.

(Photo: Doris Barić)

“I love being surrounded by creative people and following their work and artistic development. For me, it all started in the streets and abandoned buildings, where I was struck by the diversity of graffiti and street art.

That led me deeper into the world of the local art scene, and eventually, an obsession with photography and other forms of artistic expression.

With Moj Akromatični Zagreb, I want to start adding my perspective to this immense pool of creative energy that flows through this city. And it is also a kind of a thank you message to the city, since life here has given me opportunities I could never have dreamed of when I moved here as a student.”

Exhibition Details

Opening Night: March 22, 2025, at 19:00
Venue: Fotoklub Zagreb, Ilica 29 (3rd floor)
https://www.fotoklubzagreb.hr/

The exhibition will be on display until April 11, 2025, and is realized with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia and the City of Zagreb.

For those who can’t make it to the exhibition, you can follow Doris on Instagram (@do.ris.photography) to see more of her photographic journey.