Local artist Neda Laketic Soc shares Balkan-inspired fine art book at Carleton Place Library
Next week, the Carleton Place Public Library (CPPL) will welcome local multidisciplinary artist and author Neda Laketic Soc for an afternoon talk exploring her new fine art book, ‘Neda’s Creation’—a project rooted in memory, culture, and the evolution of creative identity.
Laketic Soc has exhibited widely, from Ontario’s Artcite Summer Art Fest to artist residencies and showcases in Serbia and Portugal. Her work has been featured in outlets including Windsor Life Magazine, RTV Serbia, and the Windsor Star. Now retired from her professional career, she devotes her time fully to art, travel, gardening, and family life.
The artist, who now lives in Ottawa and draws heavily on her Yugoslavian heritage, says the book serves as both an artistic portfolio and a bridge between generations.
“Times are different now from the time when I was a student,” she told Lanarkist. “With Neda’s Creation, my goal is to introduce the younger generation to how we lived, how we felt and how we behaved. Also, to make the ‘COVID’ lockdown enjoyable, I began to dive into the pleasant memories.”
The book compiles paintings, sculptures, and multimedia pieces informed by the artist’s upbringing in the former Yugoslavia—a cultural influence she says remains vivid in her work.
“Yugoslav culture is diverse, colourful and beautiful,” she said. “My palette shows it.”
Laketic Soc hopes the Carleton Place event inspires conversation—especially among younger artists. “Talking about art is always interesting and inspirational,” she said. “Promoting fine art and appreciating and respecting professional artists will be my goal. What would the world look like without art and creative artists?”
The library described the upcoming talk as a welcoming event for anyone curious about art, creativity, or cultural storytelling. After the presentation, Laketic Soc will offer signed copies of ‘Neda’s Creation’ for $35 (cash or e-transfer), along with other items suitable for holiday gifting.
The event will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Those wishing to attend can register by emailing hsinnett@carletonplace.ca.