The Ex-Yu Rock Centar is a museum and cultural venue located in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rock music heritage of the former Yugoslavia.[1] Established in 2022, the center showcases memorabilia, hosts exhibitions, and organizes events that highlight the influential rock scene that thrived in the region from the 1960s through the 1990s.[2]
The Ex-Yu Rock Centar officially opened on November 30, 2022, within the premises of the Dom mladih in Skenderija, occupying the space of the former Cactus Club. The inaugural exhibition, titled "Sarajevo Rock Scene 1980–1992," featured approximately 200 original artifacts and was named after the song "Šokiraš me majke mi!" by the band Zabranjeno Pušenje.[3] The project was initiated by Will Richard, an American residing in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who envisioned the center as a tribute to the region's rich musical legacy.[4]
Exhibitions and collections
The museum's permanent collection includes a diverse array of memorabilia from iconic Yugoslav rock bands and artists such as Bijelo Dugme, Indexi, and Riblja Čorba. Items on display encompass posters, photographs, musical instruments, and personal belongings that narrate the evolution of the rock scene in the former Yugoslavia. The exhibitions aim to provide context to the cultural and political influences that shaped the music of the era.[5]
Activities and events
Beyond static displays, the Ex-Yu Rock Centar serves as an active cultural hub, hosting live music performances, film screenings, and discussions. The center organizes "Open Amp Nights," providing a platform for emerging local bands to perform and engage with audiences. These events foster community involvement and support the development of new musical talents in the region.[6]
Support and partnerships
The establishment and ongoing activities of the Ex-Yu Rock Centar have received support from various international and local organizations. Notably, the European Union, the Embassy of Switzerland, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Embassy of France, UNESCO, and the Municipality of Centar Sarajevo have contributed to the center's development.[7] The EU provided technical equipment and furnishings valued at €25,000 to enhance the center's facilities.[8]
Location and visitor information
The Ex-Yu Rock Centar is situated in the Dom mladih at Skenderija, a central location in Sarajevo. The museum is open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, between 11:00 and 16:00. The entrance fee is 5 BAM.[9]
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