On Writing about Ukrainian Artists…

As an art enthusiast and advocate for underrepresented artists, particularly women, I’ve recently had the incredible opportunity to contribute to the new Borshch of Art Discover Database by writing about Ukrainian artists. This experience has been both enlightening and inspiring, allowing me to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Ukrainian art and culture. Also, I realized how often these artists can be misrepresented online!

While I was familiar with many of these artists, the process of researching and writing about them has opened my eyes to the depth and breadth of their contributions to the art world. It’s been a journey of discovery, not just of individual artists, but of Ukraine’s cultural heritage and its influence on global art movements.

One artist who particularly captivated me was Sonia Gechtoff. Born to a Ukrainian-Jewish father, Gechtoff’s abstract expressionist works are a testament to the cross-cultural influences that have shaped American art. Her bold, gestural paintings challenged the male-dominated art scene of the 1950s and 60s, paving the way for future generations of women artists.

Inka Essenhigh, another artist with Ukrainian roots, has fascinated me with her surreal, dreamlike paintings that blend contemporary themes with a hint of folkloric mysticism. Her work seems to echo the magical realism found in Ukrainian folk tales, reimagined through a modern lens.

The legendary Lee Krasner, born to Ukrainian-Jewish immigrants, has long been a personal hero of mine. Writing about her for the database allowed me to appreciate her resilience and artistic innovation. Krasner’s ability to continually reinvent her style throughout her career is truly inspiring. 

Deborah Kass‘ work, with its bold appropriation of iconic images and sly commentary on identity and popular culture, has been a joy to explore. Her Ukrainian-Jewish background adds another layer of complexity to her explorations of cultural identity.

 

Katya Grokhovsky‘s multidisciplinary approach to art, informed by her experiences as a Ukrainian immigrant, offers a contemporary perspective on themes of displacement and belonging. Her work resonates deeply in our current global climate. Also I love her feminist intent!

Louise Nevelson, born in Kyiv, has always been a favorite of mine. Revisiting her monumental sculptures and understanding how her Ukrainian roots influenced her artistic vision has been a rewarding experience.

Discovering the work of Ola Rondiak has been a highlight of this project. Her mixed-media pieces, deeply rooted in Ukrainian folk art and history, offer a powerful commentary on contemporary issues facing Ukraine.

So many more artists…this journey through Ukrainian art has reinforced my belief in the importance of highlighting diverse voices in the art world. Each of these artists brings a unique perspective shaped by their Ukrainian heritage, whether direct or ancestral. Their stories are not just part of Ukrainian history, but integral to the global narrative of art.

Working on the Discover Database has been more than just a professional project; it’s been a personal exploration of cultural identity, artistic innovation, and the power of art to impact beyond borders. It reminded me why I’m so passionate about promoting awareness of underrepresented artists, especially women, by writing about them! Their stories deserve to be told, their art deserves to be seen, and their contributions to the art world deserve to be celebrated. Also, seeing their work in person is now especially moving!

As I continue to write for the Discover Database, I look forward to uncovering more hidden gems of Ukrainian art and sharing these discoveries with the world. I hope that this work will contribute to a greater appreciation of Ukraine’s rich artistic heritage and inspire others to explore the diverse tapestry of global art.

Check it out under the Borshch of Art’s Programming! Also check out their awesome opportunities for writing and a fellowship!

All images found via Artsy.