about
Born in Skopje, Macedonia in 1974. Graduated from Brooklyn College, New York, USA with a degree in filmmaking. From 1996 to 2000 worked in film industry, directing short films, documentaries, music videos and commercials. His short films and documentaries have been screened at a number of international film festivals. Since 2001, he left the film scene and has been immersed in photographic work, initiating numerous documentary projects.
Works as a freelancer and has contributed to Macedonian newspapers and magazines. Most of his work was done locally in Macedonia and the Balkan region and deals with youth, social and cultural issues. He has exhibited his work at national and international museum and gallery venues.
In 2004 he received a publishing grant by Foundation Open Society Institute Macedonia and two grants by Pro Helvetia in 2004 and 2006. With the help of the first grant by Pro Helvetia in 2004 he embarked on a two year journey documenting the lives of Macedonians as the country was approaching its 15 independence anniversary.
In 2008 started collaboration with Anzenberger Agency.
Books published by Macedonian Center of Photography: Sparks – Initiatives for a Safe School (2004), and by Templum: Macedonia Dreaming (2007) and Skopje with Eyes Wide Open (2008).
Besides his photographic work Blazhev is involved in the educational aspects of photography through classes and workshops.
INDEPENDENT PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITS
- 2008
- Skopje, Macedonia, Skopje With Eyes Wide Open
- 2007
- Krakow, Poland, Macedonia Dreaming, Alchemia
- Cetinje, Montenegro, Macedonia Dreaming, Biljarda
- 2006
- Ohrid, Macedonia, Friends, Cultural Center
- Skopje, Macedonia, Macedonia Dreaming, Museum of the City of Skopje
- 2005
- Skopje, Macedonia, Friends, Tochka Gallery
- 2004
- Skopje, Macedonia, SPARKS: Initiatives for safe school, Museum of the City of Skopje
- Tetovo, Macedonia, SPARKS: Initiatives for safe school, Gallery of the Music School
SELECTED GROUP PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITS
- 2008
- Vienna, Austria, Young Eastern European Photography, Brick5
- 2007
- Graz, Austria, Photonic Moments II, Fotogalerie der Rathhaus
- Podgorica, Montenegro, Photography Adventure, City Gallery
- 2006
- Ljubljana, Slovenia, Photonic Moments II, Ljubljana castle
- 2004
- Thessaloniki, Greece, Balkan Square, Photographic Center of Thessaloniki