The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is pleased to present

Exploring Space, Light, Structure and Material
Exhibition Dates: August 29 to October 26, 2003
Opening Reception: September 5, 2003

Vasyl Bazhay (abstract painting) Volodymyra Hankevych (artistic tapestries)

Chicago, IL. — The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is pleased to announce a two-month celebration of modern Ukrainian art beginning on August 29. Partially sponsored by a grant from the Governor’s International Arts Exchange Program of the Illinois Arts Council, the exhibition features two experimental Ukrainian artists. An opening reception honoring the Council’s unwavering support of the Institute will be held on September 5th at 6 p.m.

Exploring Space, Light, Structure and Material showcases the award-winning Lviv-based artists Vasyl Bazhay (abstract painting) and Volodymyra Hankevych (artistic tapestries). This exhibition marks the premier showing of both artists to Chicago audiences. It is complemented by several events that celebrate modern Ukrainian art and offers several opportunities to meet with the artists.

Vasyl Bazhay, born in Lviv in 1950, defined his artistic style in the late 1980s when the reins of government censorship loosened and painting provided him a venue for a furious offensive against the system. A painter and installation artist, Bazhay began his work in Lviv’s theaters, an experience which freed him from the natural fear of space and liberated his thought process and selection of color.

“Vasyl Bazhay is a ‘pure’ abstractionist, submerged in a controlled riot of color and form,” observes Grigory Ostrovsky, a critic living in Tel-Aviv, Israel.

Volodymyra Hankevych, born in Karaganda Kazakstan in 1955, is recognized for her daring experimentation with space, the use of large dimensions and innovation within traditional techniques. Her open, ephemeral works recall the singing, chanting, storytelling and dancing of Ukrainian life. The works also give rise to associations with interwoven coaxial and optic fiber cables of today’s intricate information channels

A color catalogue which features works of each artist will be available for purchase at the Institute.

The Bazhay – Hankevych exhibition is complemented by four events which will be held at UIMA in September and October:

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Website: www.uima-art.org