The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville announced a new exhibition featuring Jacksonville-based artist Amer Kobaslija. Titled "Outside Looking In: The Paintings of Amer Kobaslija," the show runs from April 30 to September 20 and traces his artistic journey from early works to the present. It includes series such as Florida Diaries, One Hundred Views of Kesennuma (inspired by Japan's 2011 tsunami), and his ongoing Artist Studios series. Kobaslija, originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, draws on his experiences as a refugee and life across multiple countries, exploring themes of memory, displacement, and belonging.
The exhibition matters because it highlights a major solo presentation of a contemporary artist whose work bridges personal history and global issues like climate change and natural disaster. It also underscores MOCA Jacksonville's role in showcasing internationally recognized talent based in the local community, supported by city and cultural partners. The free opening event and downtown partnerships make the exhibition accessible, reinforcing the museum's engagement with the Jacksonville public.