Gallery 11/07/95 | Sarajevo

Gallery 11/07/95 is an art gallery located in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, dedicated to the victims of the Srebrenica genocide that occurred during the Bosnian War in 1995. The gallery serves as a memorial space for reflection, education, and remembrance, focusing on the tragic events of July 11, 1995, when over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were killed by Bosnian Serb forces in the Srebrenica enclave, a UN-protected safe zone.

Purpose and Mission

Gallery 11/07/95 was established to raise awareness about the atrocities of the Srebrenica genocide, commemorate the victims, and educate both Bosnians and the international community about the events of the war. Its primary aim is to ensure that the victims' stories are not forgotten and that the importance of peace, human rights, and justice is emphasized.

The gallery's name, 11/07/95, refers to the date of the beginning of the massacre on July 11, 1995, which marks the start of the tragic events when the Bosnian Serb military forces, under the command of General Ratko Mladić, overran the town of Srebrenica and began the systematic execution of Muslim civilians.

Location

• The gallery is located in the center of Sarajevo, in a district that is easily accessible for both local visitors and tourists. Its location in the capital underscores its significance as a central point of remembrance and reflection for the entire country, especially for those personally affected by the atrocities.

Exhibitions and Collections

Gallery 11/07/95 houses a range of artistic exhibitions, photographs, documents, and memorial artifacts related to the Srebrenica genocide. The exhibits serve to educate the public about the horrors that took place, the ongoing process of seeking justice for the victims, and the consequences of ethnic violence.

The gallery showcases personal testimonies, photographs, and memorial objects from survivors, families of the victims, and human rights organizations. These materials help preserve the memory of the victims of the genocide while also providing a sobering reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of reconciliation.

Key Exhibitions:

Photographs of the Massacre:

• One of the key features of the gallery is a series of graphic photographs taken by photojournalists and individuals during the genocide. These images document the tragic fate of the Bosniak population in Srebrenica and the inhumane treatment they endured.

Personal Testimonies:

• The gallery includes video and written testimonies from Srebrenica survivors, offering personal accounts of the events they witnessed and endured. These testimonies help humanize the tragedy, providing insight into the lives of the victims and the families affected by the genocide.

Memorial Objects:

• Various memorial objects from the Srebrenica genocide are displayed, including personal belongings of the victims, which were recovered after the mass graves were discovered. These objects are poignant reminders of the human cost of the conflict.

Artworks:

• The gallery also exhibits works by contemporary artists who have used their craft to express their grief, anger, and reflections on the genocide. Art is used as a tool for both remembrance and healing, helping visitors process the emotional weight of the tragedy.

Documentation and Historical Context:

• The gallery provides detailed information about the events leading up to the Srebrenica massacre, the failure of international peacekeeping forces, and the subsequent efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice, including the work of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in prosecuting war crimes.

Educational Role

Gallery 11/07/95 is not only a space for reflection but also a platform for education. The gallery hosts workshops, lectures, and discussions on topics such as genocide prevention, human rights, conflict resolution, and the importance of peacebuilding in post-conflict societies.

The gallery works in partnership with local schools, universities, and international organizations to ensure that the younger generation learns about the events of the Bosnian War, especially the Srebrenica genocide, and the broader implications for human rights and international law.

Memorialization of Victims

Gallery 11/07/95 plays a key role in the memorialization process, offering a respectful and dignified space to honor the Srebrenica victims. The gallery’s efforts are aligned with the ongoing mission of preserving the memory of the victims, whose voices were silenced by the violence but whose legacies continue to shape the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The gallery is closely linked to the Srebrenica Memorial Center, located near the site of the massacre in Potočari, where many of the victims were buried. The collaboration between these institutions strengthens the remembrance of those who lost their lives and ensures that the historical truth about the genocide is preserved for future generations.

Visiting Gallery 11/07/95

Location: Gallery 11/07/95 is situated in the center of Sarajevo, making it accessible to both local visitors and international tourists. Its central location makes it an integral part of Sarajevo’s memorial culture.

Opening Hours: The gallery is typically open during regular business hours, but it may have adjusted hours on holidays or for special events. It’s best to check the gallery’s website or contact them directly for the most current visiting information.

Admission Fees: The gallery usually charges a small entrance fee, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. The funds help support the gallery’s operations and its educational programs.

Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to better understand the significance of the exhibits and the historical context of the Srebrenica genocide. These tours offer a deeper insight into the events, providing personal stories and testimonies from survivors and experts.

Conclusion

Gallery 11/07/95 serves as an important cultural institution in Sarajevo, dedicated to the memory and victims of the Srebrenica genocide. It offers a space for reflection, education, and remembrance, ensuring that the tragic events of July 11, 1995, are not forgotten. Through its exhibits, educational programs, and partnerships, the gallery continues to play a significant role in preserving the memory of those who lost their lives, promoting awareness of the dangers of ethnic violence, and encouraging efforts towards reconciliation and peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond.