SERBIAN SPOTLIGHT: Iva Ugrcic
What have you learned from moving to the USA from Serbia? Pro’s? Con’s?
Moving to the U.S. was one of the most defining moments of my life. There are so many things I love about this country, along with a list of things I could do without or would prefer to adopt from Europe. But the one thing I always share is that the U.S. remains a land of opportunity—a place where you can truly be yourself and build the life you want.
When and how did you start the LunArt Festival? Who are your guest artists this year, etc (or are you taking a break because of the move? How are you dealing with the move??)
The story of LunART began long before it took on a formal structure. Everything I do in my life is deeply personal, and LunART is no exception. I faced many challenges that nearly pushed me away from pursuing music altogether. While the poor political and economic conditions in Serbia were significant factors in my decision to leave, the most troubling issues I encountered were gender inequality, sexual harassment, and emotional abuse. These experiences became the driving force behind LunART.
The inaugural festival season took place in June 2018, featuring public performances, exhibitions, and workshops across Madison, WI. Since then, LunART has grown from a three-day arts festival into an organization that hosts year-round educational and outreach events, culminating in a week-long festival that celebrates women artists from around the world. Our audiences eagerly anticipate our innovative programming, which interweaves various art forms—dance, theater, visual art, and more—highlighting the creativity of women of all ages and backgrounds.
Throughout this journey, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with extraordinary artists and composers—women of integrity and remarkable drive. It’s been a privilege to commission, premiere, and perform works by women who have been overlooked, those in the prime of their creative powers, and young, emerging artists. Since 2018, LunART has proudly represented over 400 artists from 50 countries, creating a ripple effect in the global music scene.
What is the most exciting thing in your life right now?
I just moved to Pittsburgh (PA) and look forward to exploring the city and its rich cultural scene. Having legendary flutists and teachers like Alberto Almarza and Lauran McGhee in the neighborhood will be special and inspiring!
I also have a toddler at home, so fun, excitement, and exhaustion seem to lurk around every corner. Need I say more?
What are you completely bored with right now?
Website updates! I’m juggling managing and updating three websites for the upcoming season, and I’m ready to hand this off and bring in some help!
What is keeping you busy these days?
Like many artists, I wear multiple hats—I'm a performer, educator, arts leader, and entrepreneur, each demanding consistent, focused effort. Right now, my main priority is developing the right systems and execution plans so that when my motivation wanes, I can rely on my processes to keep me on track.
In a scale from one to ten, how organized are you?
With the demands of juggling my freelance performance career, nonprofit work, and coaching business, staying organized isn’t optional—it's essential. So, I’d say I’m consistently between 8 and 9! Is there a place for improvement? Definitely!
One habit you wish you could break?
Checking social media! I’m fully aware of the downsides it brings to my life, but I can’t seem to quit. I guess I’m dealing with a bit of FOMO!
If you had a super power, what would it be?
The power of instant learning! Also, being in multiple places at once! So, I guess that would be time-bending.
What is one thing you wish you knew at 19?
One thing I wish I’d known at 19 is that people skills are one the most important assets you can develop. I wasn’t naturally skilled in this area, and it took me a while to grasp its importance, resulting in missed opportunities, valuable connections, and joyful experiences.
What is your Spirit Animal?
My spirit animal is the Black Panther, representing courage, leadership, and wisdom. She embodies mystique, sophistication, strength, and independence!
Dr. Iva Ugrčić, an award-winning Serbian flutist, is celebrated for her “amazing virtuosic technique, impeccable intonation, and gorgeous rich tone throughout the registers” (The American Prize 2023). Her "mesmerizing performances" (the Flute View 2024) have graced prestigious stages, venues, and music festivals worldwide. Named the "Musician of the Year for 2018" by the Well-Tempered Ear and a “Woman to Watch 2022” by BRAVA Magazine, Dr. Ugrčić enjoys a versatile career as a performer, educator, speaker, coach, entrepreneur, and music advocate. She is the Founder & CEO/Artistic Director of LunART, an award-winning nonprofit celebrating women in the arts, and the Owner & Coach at Artistic Wealth Coach, LLC, offering financial and career coaching to artists across the globe.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iva.ugrcic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivaugrcic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ivaugrcic
Website: https://www.ivaugrcic.com/
LunART Festival: https://www.lunartfestival.org/
Artistic Wealth Coach: https://www.artisticwealthcoach.com/