This year’s 20th anniversary edition of the Crna ovca festival was symbolically opened with the ethnographic exhibition “ČOBANiJA” at Galerija Zvonimir, organized by the Association Društvo Sinjali.

The exhibition presents an emotional and powerful portrayal of the lives of Baška’s shepherds — men who, for decades, shaped the landscape, identity, and everyday life of the island.

Through photographs of sheep, dry stone walls, and mrgari (traditional stone sheepfolds), the exhibition revives the rich shepherding tradition that was, for centuries, the foundation of life in Baška and on the island of Krk.

“ČOBANiJA” is not only a presentation of tradition, but also a story about hard work, resilience, and the deep connection between people and the rugged karst landscape that shaped them.

The exhibition also features numerous objects and tools used by shepherds in their daily work. These items bear witness to a way of life in which sheep farming was essential and deeply influenced the relationship between people and their environment.

A special place within the exhibition is dedicated to black sheep, the recognizable symbol of the Crna ovca festival, which for the past twenty years has celebrated island authenticity, diversity, and local heritage through its program.

The exhibition concept was created by Sanja Dorčić, while the atmosphere is enriched by photographs from Sanjin Ilić, Berislav Horvatić, and Denis Lešić, whose images capture an intimate and documentary view of the coexistence of people and nature through details of the landscape, sheep, and island life.

A visit to “ČOBANiJA” offers insight into the roots of the local community and the values that shaped the identity of Baška and the island of Krk.

📍 Galerija Zvonimir
114 Kralja Zvonimira Street, Baška

🕒 Opening hours:

• Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed