The sculptor Mirsad Begić completed a postgraduate specialisation with Drago Tršar at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ljubljana in 1986. He works in plaster, clay, bronze and wax with string. His many portraits of prominent figures in Slovenia include a sculpture of the long-serving director of the National Gallery, Anica Cevc, whose personal dedication and professional expertise were at the institution’s disposal for more than 60 years. She initiated the expansion of the gallery complex and, through her vision and energy, turned the National Gallery into a prestigious, respected, professional and vital institution with a long tradition and rich collections.

With sculptural skill and a clear feeling for the individuality and psychology of his subject, Begić gave his portrait of Anica Cevc, with her characteristic benevolent smile, an attractively furrowed form that is dramatically heightened by the effect of the light upon it.