ACUA features three Ukrainian artists

NP-UN Western Bureau.

The Alberta Council for Ukrainian Arts (ACUA) opened its Signature Artist Series for the month of February at their gallery in Edmonton, February 2.

The exhibit entitled “I have that in my heart which cannot die – я в серці маю те, що не вмирає” features the works of three artists, Olha Frolova, Liubov Kostetska and Olya Lisova, who were introduced by ACUA Gallery Committee member Lesia Soltykevych.

Olha Frolova is an artist from Kyiv, now living and creating in Edmonton. Drawing has always been her hobby and for the past seven years it has been her career. In her art she presents her love, her worries, and her thoughts. Since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion of independent Ukraine she represents more of her beautiful home country within her drawings. She knows she will soon be able to draw a story of great victory.

Liubov Kostetska Новий старт / New Start (triptych), Acrylic and mixed media on canvas

Liubov Kostetska was born Ternopil and now resides in Edmonton with her family. At seven years of age, she enrolled in Makohona Art School and upon graduating interned in Poland where she decorated people’s walls with custom acrylic paintings. Her art portrays different Ukrainian historical events and has been sold in Ukrainian diasporas – in Poland, Germany, USA, Canada, and Italy. She founded two private art studios where she was teaching children a variety of painting techniques while discussing and exploring Ukrainian history through art.

“Перемога / Victory” by Liubov Kostetska

After the 2014 Revolution of Dignity in Ukraine, Liubov had the idea to custom paint clothes in a national style – each one with its own unique meaning, raising and magnifying patriotism among members of her community. The clothing became extremely popular after the Russian invasion as people who moved out of Ukraine wanted something to remind them of their home. Her paintings are presented on a variety of clothing including jackets, shirts, and t-shirts using special textile paint. Every element has its own historical and cultural meaning.

Olya Lisova is a graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Bachelors of Fine Art (Honours) degree, along with diplomas in visual communication and design from UAlberta and MacEwan University. She has received awards for her work from the Society of Graphic Designers of Alberta, Alberta Culture, and UManitoba. Exhibits include Pysanky for Peace, Art Walk, APEGGA Summit Awards, Strathcona Place Gallery, Edmonton City Hall, and ACUA.

“Lost” by Olya Lisova

The exhibit runs until February 21 during the regular hours: Tue-Thu 10am-4pm, Friday 2pm-7pm, Saturday 11am-3pm.

ACUA is located at 10554 110 Street, Edmonton. Phone: (780) 488-8558; email: [email protected]

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