Exhibition
BLESSED
an exhibition of paintings by artists Olena Illichova and Volodymyr Illichov
Saturday, December 7, 2024 to Wednesday, January 15, 2025 @ Opening reception: Saturday, December 7 at 5 PM
Shevchenko Museum, 1604 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Have you noticed how prolonged exposure of the human eye to the sun renders everything washed out and colourless? Similarly, we, who once basked in the beauty of our homeland, Ukraine, now look upon her destruction with sadness and trepidation. The blue skies over shimmering golden fields have become overcast and gloomy. The emerald surface of the sea is no longer pleases the eye. Only the poppies continue to glow a fiery red, fiercely defending their vibrant hue, a testament to their enduring spirit. The yearning to return to one’s homeland is akin to childhood memories when every little thing was the precious embodiment of the imagination. Even the smallest fragment of a past life evokes an intense longing for those happier times.
The Shevchenko Museum is thrilled to open BLESSED – an exhibition of paintings by artists Olena Illichova and Volodymyr Illichov, formerly of Odesa, Ukraine – on December 7, 2024 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm in the Museum Gallery at 1604 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario.
Olena Illichova’s art is a masterful showcase of traditional realism, behind which, lies a fascinating world imbued with profound emotions, sharp insights, and meticulous observation. Her paintings transcend mere depiction, transporting one’s objective reality into the spiritual realm. Every detail in her work seems to be vividly coloured by the imagination.
Volodymyr Illichov is a versatile artist whose work spans painting, drawing, and sculpture. His exploration of urban environments is significantly influenced by his background in architecture. With years of experience and boundless imagination, Volodymyr Illichov has exhibited both on the domestic and international stage and he continues to find new and intriguing ways to create art that is both abstract and imaginative.
The exhibition will run until January 15, 2025. Gallery hours are Mon – Wed, Fri: 10 am – 4 pm, Thurs: 12 – 7 pm, and weekends by appointment. To book a private tour or enquire about purchasing, please email us at shevchenkomuseum@bellnet.ca or call 416-534-8662.
Admission to the December 7th opening reception is free. Please register for this event at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/blessed-an-exhibition-of-art-by-olena-illichova-and-volodymyr-illichov-tickets-1083590260639?aff=oddtdtcreator
The Shevchenko Museum greatly appreciates the support of the Olzhych Foundation in the creation and printing of advertising materials for this exhibition.
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