What happens when the industry meets education and talent development, driven by people who get both the business and the creative side? CGA was born from this synergy, offering a bold glimpse into the future. Meet the powerhouse duo, Miljana Jovović of Materriya Development Center and Milica Božanić of the Serbia Film Commission.
Together, they’ve created a space where creativity, industry innovation, knowledge and pure fun collide to form the Computer Graphic and Arts Conference. Let’s dive into their journey and vision and what makes CGA the go-to conference for film, TV, and video game professionals.
CGA has become such a cornerstone for creatives. How did it all begin?
Milica: For me, it was about connecting the dots. At the Serbian Film Commission, we work to create opportunities for the film and audiovisual industry. CGA was the perfect way to unite creatives from different fields – films, games, and television and give them a platform to exchange, learn from their international peers and develop authentic visual voices.
Miljana: I’ve always loved how CGA could bridge architecture, film, and art. Pair that with my experience in post-production and education, and voilà we had to do something big.
This year’s theme is Untitled. What’s the story behind that?
Milica: After years of booming growth and rapid innovation, the industry hit a point where the usual roadmaps didn’t work anymore. Technology evolves, audience habits shift, and business models get tossed in the air. We’re navigating uncharted waters now. Hence, Untitled only seemed appropriate. It is a time to congregate, talk, exchange and collectively paint the new roadmap.
Miljana: Exactly. Untitled represents the idea that we don’t have to stick to the usual. It’s about embracing the unknown, and giving space for people to define their creative journeys. Whether you’re a student, an indie studio, or a seasoned pro, CGA is your blank canvas.
Milica: And honestly, isn’t it kind of exciting not knowing exactly what’s next? It’s like the best cliffhanger ever.
What’s your proudest CGA moment so far?
Miljana: Oh, there are so many! But one that sticks with me is when Victor Perez, a world-renowned visual effects artist, attended CGA. He ended up giving a professional drawing pencil to my daughter Una. That little moment felt like a metaphor for how CGA connects worlds and industry legends meeting the next generation.
Milica: For me, it’s watching attendees come back year after year. Seeing new talents who broke the ground in Belgrade sharing the stage in other international festivals and conferences. Seeing the network grow whether professionals or students is incredibly rewarding. It’s proof that CGA isn’t just an event; it’s a launchpad.
What makes CGA 2025 special for the regional industry?
Milica: Serbia, and the region as a whole represent a small, but highly resilient and creative market that has been developing its film, gaming and IT industries rapidly. Our aim with CGA is to create a crossroads where ideas flow and constructive dialogue is taking place about the technologies that shape the creative collaboration between industries and markets. We want to go further and infuse creative business leaders with fresh perspectives coming from computer graphics. Surely, a lot of it will tackle the topic of AI and machine learning, and regional industries have active participation in that dialogue.
Miljana: We amplify voices from small studios, showcase new talent, and dive into the trends shaping our industries. CGA isn’t just a mirror reflecting what’s out there, it’s a prism that refracts and expands it.
Speaking of having fun while exploring new possibilities, CGA 2025 feels a lot like a great party where everyone’s welcome. How do you pull that off?
Miljana: By being the ultimate house party host! We introduce people, make sure everyone’s comfortable, and curate the programme in a way that everyone gets to taste just the right mix of tech, art, and business.
Milica: The scale helps too. It’s big enough to attract trailblazers but small enough that you’ll meet everyone you want to. Seniors share wisdom, juniors find mentors, and everyone leaves with their creative batteries charged.
What’s your message to someone attending CGA for the first time?
Miljana: Don’t just sit in the audience, do jump in! Ask questions, connect with speakers, and explore everything from the workshops to the coffee breaks.
Milica: And remember, CGA is for everyone. Whether you’re a student figuring out your path, a mid-level professional levelling up, or a studio looking for inspiration, partners, or clients. You’ll leave with a notebook full of ideas and probably a significant number of new friends.
Finally, what’s the next big thing for CGA?
Milica: This year’s CGA is shaping up to be our most dynamic edition yet! We are packaging a new format of presentations, exclusive case studies, forward-thinking workshops to sharpen your skills, and panels that address ways forward to creative and business new horizons.
From the cutting-edge design of the conference space to the bold new branding and production, every detail reflects the spirit of this new chapter for CGA. Shoutout to our visionary designer, Dejan Ilić, for giving CGA a fresh new visual voice and perspective.
And yes, early bird tickets will be soon available! Don’t miss your chance to be part of the creativity and innovation that’s redefining our industry.
Miljana: But more than that, CGA 2025 will still be about the people. We’ll keep building a space where creators can dream bigger, experiment boldly, and find their place in the unknown.
Are YOU ready to dive into the unknown? Keep an eye on your inbox on December 2nd.
