Zbor 2 — “Center for Contemporary Art – Prilep: The Greatest Artistic Ambassador of Prilep”

The “3rd November” municipal plaque, one of the highest recognitions awarded by the Municipality of Prilep, was officially presented to the Center for Contemporary Art – Prilep (CSLU-Prilep) in 2018. This significant honor acknowledges CSLU's outstanding commitment to nurturing and promoting contemporary art for over 61 years.

Founded through the vision of Dr. Bosko Babic and painter Risto Lozanoski, CSLU began its journey in 1957 with the formation of the International Painting Colony – one of the oldest in Southeast Europe. The center evolved into a powerful institution for intercultural collaboration and artistic production, continuously organizing international workshops and symposia in marble, metal, wood, plastic, mosaic, and digital art.

More than 1200 works by artists from over 50 countries have been created within its frameworks. The organization has also helped build a monumental outdoor sculpture gallery across Prilep and other cities, leaving a lasting cultural imprint.
This recognition by the Municipality, proposed by director Sasha Naceski, honors not only the present leadership but generations of visionaries, artists, and supporters. During the award ceremony, President Goran Risteski dedicated the plaque to all past contributors – with a special tribute to former president Dime Janeski, whose 35 years of dedication remain unmatched.

The award stands as a proud milestone and an inspirational force for current and future generations to preserve and build upon the legacy of CSLU-Prilep – a cultural institution deeply woven into the artistic identity of North Macedonia.