Damjan Muhič, independent consultant at the University of Primorska, collaborator in InnoRenew CoE videoproduction; main area of activities: audio-video production

Photo: Mirella Baruca

• Where were you living in childhood and where do you live now?

I come from Bela krajina, where I always like to return; but in recent years, I have lived in an Istrian village on the Savudrija peninsula.

• What have you studied and what were the motives for your decision?

My decision to attend cultural studies and anthropology was a logical answer to all the personal questions and societal challenges I was facing. I spent a year on a student exchange studying journalism at the Faculty of Political Science, University of Belgrade, which was a unique experience.

• How would you describe your work to someone outside your field?

Have you ever put together puzzles? I do something similar, only that mine are moving and making sounds.

• What does your typical working day look like?

Fortunately, my typical working day doesn’t exist. Every shoot is different, every montage is unique. It already happened that I had to re-edit the same shots due to technical problems, but the final result was different. It is always different. As well as the working day.

• What makes you excited about your work?

Audio-video production allows you to be indulged in creativity, day in and day out. There are innovations in this area almost every day, which I try to follow.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

The Slovenian state has a stepmotherly attitude towards science and research. I would like more funds for equipment; I am lucky that the University of Primorska understands the importance and contribution of audio-video production, but we provide the equipment mostly with project money. Suitable premises will also be provided in the near future, but raising production to an even higher level will, nevertheless, be a unique challenge.

• Which scientist or scientific achievement are you fascinated by and why?

Nikola Tesla. His vision to provide the whole world with wireless and free electricity was based on a desire to change the world. His many innovations and inventions have actually changed the world for the better, which will be known by many generations of our descendants.

• Tell us about the work of art (books, music, movies, theatre, dance, visual arts) that has a special place in your life.

I read a lot, really a lot in my primary school years, so Slovenian classics, especially realists from Kosmač to Ingolič, quickly found a special place for me. Of the foreigners, John Steinbeck with Tortilla Flat and Cannery Row. I am fascinated by poetry, films of European production, especially the films of Pedro Almodóvar and Emir Kusturica. Again and again, Picasso’s Guernica leaves a special mark on me.

• What have you read, listened to, or watched lately?

Online concert of Rudi Bučar. Priceless, but would be even greater live. Soon, I hope.

• Which place on the Slovene coast do you like the most?

My favourite corner of the Slovenian coast is not right along the coast, but it is hidden in wanderings along the karst edge, with beautiful views of Istria and the sea.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

Beautiful stories and deeds that restore my faith in humanity. Stories, which let us know that sometimes with small actions we can do big things.

• Characterize your life’s guidance or an important realization (or epiphany) you have experienced.

The realization that the world is not exactly rose-coloured, but we can make it more beautiful because the most beautiful things cost us nothing.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

The warmth conjured by wood has a very special charm, be it as a part of the ambience, an energy source for heating or simply forest scenery. I am impressed by the renewability and wide range of usability.