New York, November 20, 2023 – The collaborative efforts of The Orthodox Christian Studies Center of Fordham University (OCSC), The Sheen Center for Thought and Culture and C-Icon Art Gallery resulted in the inaugural exhibition, “Beauty during Wartime and Before,” held at The Sheen Center Gallery in Manhattan. Curated by Sergei Chapnin, this exhibition showcased contemporary Christian art from Ukraine, featuring works by renowned artists such as Yury Khymych, Sofia Atlantova, Oleksandr Klymenko, Olexiy Checkal, and Anna Ravliuc-Bloomfield.
The grand opening on November 2, 2023, marked a memorable event with a captivating performance by the Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir, conducted by the talented Stratos Mandalakis. Ukrainian church composers’ hymns resonated throughout the venue, creating a harmonious blend of visual and musical experiences, offering a profound encounter with the rich Ukrainian tradition of liturgical chants.
At the heart of the exhibition stood the poignant masterpiece, “Mariupol Deisis,” a captivating creation emerging from the Icons on Ammo Boxes project by Atlantova and Klymenko. This work pays tribute to those who lost their lives and suffered in the City of Mariupol during the Russian war of aggression in Spring 2022.
Sergei Chapnin remarked, “Departing from certain tenets of conventional iconography, their work dares to challenge established norms, not in defiance, but as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of reimagining the Eastern Orthodox tradition.” The artists invite viewers to look beyond the untreated rough wooden surfaces of the icons, emphasizing that authenticity is discovered not in a set of rules and regulations but in the eyes that perceive it.
Arising from the crucible of Ukraine’s tumultuous history since 2014, this project reshapes the narrative of contemporary iconography. While icons traditionally embody permanence and strength, Atlantova and Klymenko’s work emerges from the fissures of conflict, proclaiming the enduring presence of God, the Holy Mother, and the Saints amidst the anguish of war.
All income generated from this project is dedicated to supporting the “The Wings of Victory” Charitable Foundation based in Kyiv, reflecting a commitment to aiding those affected by the consequences of war.
“The Beauty during Wartime and Before” exhibition captivated audiences from November 2 to 27, 2023, at The Sheen Center Gallery. This collaboration between the Orthodox Christian Studies Center, The Sheen Center, and our gallery sets a precedent for future engagements that celebrate the evolving landscape of Christian art.
Sergei Chapnin expressed, “We are blessed to acquire this artwork directly from Ukraine, and we hope that this exhibition will also travel to other museums and Christian communities in the US.”
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