"As an artist, I’ve always been captivated by ideas that push boundaries and encourage deep reflection. When I came across Mirjana Prljević’s book "3X3 = That's Us: Strategic Positioning and Quantum Management in the Formula for Sustainable Societal Development - From the Individual to the State " (original titel: "3X3 = To smo mi: strateško pozicioniranje i quantum menadžment u formuli održivog razvoja društva - od pojedinca do države" ), its perspective resonated with me on a profound level. The book is more than just about business or strategy—it’s about interconnectedness, energy, and transformation, themes that are deeply ingrained in my artistic exploration. Inspired by the ideas presented in "3X3 = That's Us", I created a triptych that delves into the concept of Ether—an invisible, universal force that connects everything in the universe".
What Is Ether?
Ether is a concept that spans centuries of thought, from ancient philosophy to modern science. In early traditions, Ether was considered the fifth element, existing beyond Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. It was seen as the invisible force that binds everything together—a medium through which creation flows. In today’s world, Ether aligns closely with ideas in quantum physics. It’s thought of as the field through which energy flows and transcends both time and space. It’s invisible, but it’s always there, connecting all things, everywhere. In this view, Ether becomes the medium where information flows and energy transcends time and space. It is both the canvas and the creative force behind everything we perceive.
As an artist, I see Ether as an energy, an unseen force that unites thoughts, emotions, and the physical world, sparking creation and transformation.
While this may seem abstract, Mirjana’s book brought this idea to life for me. Her insights weave together threads from business, science, spirituality, sport and creativity, challenging us to think beyond linear perspectives and embrace a more holistic view. Inspired by her book, I set out to translate the concept of "X" which stands for Ether into visual form.
In Part III of Mirjana's book, the approach of Quantum Management is explored, with a strong foundation in the work of Nikola Tesla. Tesla, one of history’s greatest visionaries, believed in the existence of unseen forces and their potential to influence everything from energy to society. His work on wireless energy and the flow of energy across time and space parallels the concept of Ether. Tesla saw Ether not as a mysterious theory, but as a practical reality—an energy field that we can tap into for limitless growth and creation. He believed that understanding and harnessing this force could unlock transformative possibilities, both in science and society
These insights lead to the work to express Ether visually, especially the concept of "X" as a symbol for this force. Reflecting how the invisible connects the visible, how energy flows and transforms, and how the individual, society, and even the global state are interwoven in a dynamic system that transcends time, space, and traditional boundaries.
The Vision Behind The Artwork
The triptych’s format of three interconnected panels symbolizes a continuum—suggesting interdependence and fluidity between distinct yet unified parts. It reflects how our choices resonate across time and space, shaping both individual and collective realities.
To translate Ether into visual form, I used color and symbolism as primary tools:
Blues dominate the composition, evoking the infinite expanse of sky, water, and cosmos—the vast, unseen fabric that holds everything together.
Soft gradients represent harmony and coherence, capturing the subtle balance between thought and emotion needed for conscious creation.
The X is a symbol of Ether and in this case for transformation, energy, and connection. In triptych, the X appears to both emerge from and dissolve into the surrounding elements, reflecting the duality of Ether as present yet invisible. This interplay invites the viewer to contemplate the infinite flow of energy that unites all things.
What makes Mirjana’s work unique is its ability to bring together different areas into a unified vision. Her book encourages a holistic perspective on life and creation. Mirjana integrates Tesla’s principles—visualization, discipline, and innovation—into a model for sustainable growth. Her book inspired this triptych and reaffirmed my belief in the synergy between art and science as tools for exploring the unseen forces that shape our reality. I believe that by tapping into the unseen forces that shape our world, we can unlock new possibilities for growth and transformation.
Through this piece, I hope to invite you into a deeper dialogue with the mysteries of Ether and the profound insights within "3X3 = That's Us: Strategic Positioning and Quantum Management in the Formula for Sustainable Societal Development - From the Individual to the State".
Art and philosophy share a common goal: to explore and express forces that shape our reality. As you engage with this artwork, I invite you to consider: How do interconnected forces influence your decisions? Where in your life could greater harmony or alignment be cultivated? What does Ether mean to you, and how do you sense its presence in your daily life?
With Love, Nina
Prljević, M. (2023). 3X3 = To smo mi: strateško pozicioniranje i quantum menadžment u formuli održivog razvoja društva - od pojedinca do države". Beograd, Mirjana Prljević.