Dragan Bogdan is a European contemporary artist whose journey from being a war refugee to creating some of the most captivating sculptures in fine art is a testament to his resilience and creativity. One of his most iconic creations is Yogi Naya, a playful baby elephant balancing on a surfboard—an embodiment of elegance, vibrancy, and whimsy. This character symbolizes the balance between life's challenges and the strength to navigate them with grace.
Growing up in Germany after escaping war-torn Sarajevo, Dragan embraced a refined attention to detail often described as "German engineering." This meticulous craftsmanship is evident in his sculptures, which he likens to the "sports car of sculptures." Each piece is handcrafted using a unique technique developed by Dragan, combining 10 different mediums and applying over 5 layers of resin. These resin layers, equivalent to 50 layers of high-gloss spray, are hand-polished and torched to achieve a luxurious, glass-like finish. Each layer requires 72 hours to cure, with a careful process of sanding and polishing in between.
Yogi Naya sculptures are available in a range of sizes, from collectible 10-inch versions to monumental 10-foot installations suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. Dragan offers full customization, allowing clients to choose their preferred size and color palette.
Why an Elephant?
The elephant, a symbol of good luck, happiness, and strength, holds deep spiritual meaning. The image of an elephant balancing on a surfboard may seem impossible, but it serves as a reminder that "all is possible." It encourages viewers to find their balance, trust the flow of life, and face even the most impossible situations with grace and optimism.
Who is Yogi Naya?
Yogi Naya is a charming baby elephant, attempting to find balance and harmony while "doing yoga" on a surfboard. With his smiling face, round belly, and upward-pointing trunk symbolizing joy, Yogi Naya represents an abstract, timeless character that is both elegant and endearing—a contemporary take on the gentle giant.
Who is Dragan Bogdan?
Born in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia, Dragan’s early life was shaped by the Yugoslav Wars. At just eight years old, he and his family escaped the violence, but his father was captured and forced to fight in the war’s longest siege. Growing up in Germany as a war refugee, Dragan spent his childhood watching animal shows while anxiously listening to local broadcasts that listed the names of those killed in the war, waiting to hear if his father had survived another day. These experiences have deeply influenced Dragan’s artistic vision, infusing his work with emotional depth and powerful symbolism.
The Birth of an Artist
In 2014, Dragan relocated to Florida, where his creativity began to shine in an unexpected arena—home remodeling and design. His clients frequently commented on the artistic flair in his work, which eventually led him to transform massive tree trunks, left behind after a hurricane, into luxury tables. This marked the beginning of his journey into fine art, and soon, Dragan found himself in Tulum, Mexico, where he opened a studio specializing in high-end live-edge tables for luxury homes and hotels.
During his time in Mexico, Dragan lived a peaceful, reflective life, filled with swimming, paddleboarding, and meditation. It was here that Yogi Naya came to life, and his transition from furniture design to fine art sculpture began.
The Mission
Dragan believes in the power of "inspiring happy art." His mission is to uplift and energize spaces with vibrant, joyful sculptures that alter the mood and inspire positivity. As an artist, Dragan's work is not just about visual beauty—it’s about making a lasting impact by creating art that reminds us of life’s possibilities and the importance of joy.