[personal insights]
Welcome to my personal insights page. Here, I share the elements—from playlists to favorite films—that contribute to my perspective and have influenced my creative development, offering visitors a fuller sense of who I am. The idea of "sculpting emotions," my motto, may strike some as unconventional for a designer, but it's part of my commitment to present myself genuinely on this platform, going beyond a simple portfolio. This page also fulfills a long-held dream of creating an online space where I can celebrate and share the music, stories, and inspirations that bring me joy—a place to connect with others through the things I love. I hold that an honest approach is important for productive creative relationships.
[soundscapes]
A collection of personally curated playlists that mirror different moods and atmospheres—from the nostalgic summer echoes to meditative oriental journeys and gritty 90s grunge tunes.
sunset echoes
With every beat, we chase the fading light, collecting fragments of joy like fireflies in jars—reminders that even as seasons change, our memories remain aglow.
beach vibes
Sun-drenched afternoons, echoes of laughter and whispers of the sea, canvas of summer dreams under a cerulean sky.
dreamy horizons
Where horizons blur, melodies awaken fragments of lives once lived, loves once held.
oriental sounds: sahara to silk road
Soulful melodies echoing across Middle Eastern and North African landscapes.
grunge
A musical journey through grunge's raw, emotional, and unfiltered early 90s roots.
[essential listening]
Albums that have marked significant chapters in my listening journey. These recordings span from raw 90s rock expressions to intricate ethnic compositions, each offering something that continues to reveal new layers with repeated listening.
anastasia - before the rain soundtrack (1994)
While my personal connection to this album from my homeland runs deep, Anastasia truly stands as something extraordinary. The seamless blend of Macedonian traditional music, Byzantine influences, and contemporary gothic rock creates a profound sonic landscape that captures Macedonia's essence with remarkable authenticity.
alice in chains – dirt (1992)
Alice in Chains stands as my favorite band from the grunge era, and Dirt perfectly captures their raw, emotional sound. Layne Staley’s haunting vocal delivery adds a powerful dimension, making the album a defining moment in alternative rock.
pearl jam – ten (1992)
Another essential from the grunge era, Ten stands as Pearl Jam’s defining masterpiece. From the energy of “Even Flow” and “Alive” to the haunting emotion of “Jeremy” and “Black,” the album resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression.
korn - korn (1994)
A cornerstone of nu metal, this debut album pioneered the genre and inspired countless bands. Its raw, experimental blend of metal, rap, and electronic influences still fascinates me, making it essential listening for any fan of heavy music.
dragan dautovski quartet - the path of the sun (2001)
Another outstanding work from my country, The Path of the Sun expertly fuses Macedonian traditional music with contemporary jazz and world music elements. Dautovski's thoughtful compositions create a unique, culturally resonant album that feels both authentic and innovative.
dragan dautovski - razboj (2008)
Razboj is another gem from Dragan Dautovski, placing even greater emphasis on Macedonian traditional elements. The album beautifully captures the spirit of the country, serving as a vibrant and authentic representation of Macedonia’s rich musical heritage.
the prodigy – music for the jilted generation (1994)
This album always takes me back to my childhood—it was the very first CD I ever saw. I’ll never forget hearing those heavy breakbeats on my Sony hi-fi; truly, this is one of electronic music’s most iconic releases.
ltj bukem & mc conrad - progression sessions 6 (2001)
A masterful live recording from the pioneers of intelligent drum and bass, one of my favorite electronic music genres. LTJ Bukem's atmospheric soundscapes paired with MC Conrad's fluid flow create a timeless, transcendent listening experience.
[screen memories]
A personal archive of films that have created lasting impressions through their distinct visual styles and powerful narratives. These selections span decades and continents, offering glimpses into the narratives that have captivated my imagination over the years.
before the rain (1994)
Named among The New York Times’ 1,000 Best Films Ever Made, this film from my homeland Macedonia unfolds three interconnected stories against the backdrop of idyllic Macedonian landscapes. It’s a visually poetic meditation on fate, memory, and the cycles that shape lives.
jesus of nazareth (1977)
Many films have portrayed the life of Jesus, but none have matched the impact of Jesus of Nazareth. Robert Powell’s performance remains unparalleled, offering a depth and presence that resonates even with those who aren’t religious, highlighting timeless lessons and wisdom.
shadow hours (2000)
Though it didn’t win over many critics, Shadow Hours remains a personal favorite. Not for everyone, its dark and sometimes violent tone frames a complex story of addiction, temptation, and redemption, making for a compelling and thought-provoking watch.
che (2008)
An epic, documentary-style portrayal of one of the most remarkable figures of the 20th century, Che stands out for its realism and striking cinematography. With its outstanding performances and authentic approach, the film immerses viewers in a story of revolutionary ideals and the pursuit of justice.
frida (2002)
Essential viewing for anyone drawn to the creative life, Frida offers an emotional portrait of the artist’s struggles, passions, and resilience. The film beautifully captures her journey through art, romance, and personal adversity, leaving a lasting impression.
at play in the fields of the lord (1991)
I was intrigued to learn that this film inspired the story of Avatar, yet I found myself appreciating its depth and atmosphere even more. At Play in the Fields of the Lord offers a powerful exploration of culture, belief, and the clash between worlds.
lawrence of arabia (1962)
No list of great films is complete without a Hollywood classic like Lawrence of Arabia. Renowned for its epic scale and breathtaking cinematography, the film masterfully evokes the vastness and mystique of the desert landscapes and cultures of the Orient.
baraka (1992)
A recent discovery that immediately captivated me, Baraka is a wordless documentary that presents humanity and nature through stunning cinematography. This visual meditation spans cultures and landscapes, creating a profound experience that transcends traditional narrative filmmaking through pure imagery and sound.
[bookshelf]
These books have earned their place as permanent fixtures in my collection through years of reference and reflection. These selections range from deeply rooted cultural narratives to comprehensive explorations of visual principles, each offering a unique lens through which to understand both cultural specificity and universal principles.
the story of art by e.h. gombrich
I often wondered what makes masterpieces so revered—the magic behind David, the allure of Gothic cathedrals, or the depth of Renaissance paintings. This book answered those questions in clear, accessible language, making it essential for anyone curious about art and creativity.
universal principles of design by william lidwell
This comprehensive guide breaks down fundamental design concepts into digestible, illustrated entries. From psychology to engineering, it bridges multiple fields to provide practical insights that enhance both understanding and application of effective design principles across various projects.
the creative act a way of being by rick rubin
My most recent read, this book captivated me from the very first page. Rubin’s reflections on creativity offer fresh perspectives and practical wisdom, making it an inspiring companion for anyone seeking to nurture their own creative process.
pirey by petre m. andreevski
Pirej stands as a cornerstone of Macedonian literature, vividly portraying the endurance and spirit of the Macedonian people. Andreevski’s novel is a moving testament to resilience in the face of hardship and historical upheaval.