Opanas Zalyvakha

Opanas Zalyvakha (1925 - 2007) is a Ukrainian artist, dissident of the Ukrainian Sixtiers movement. The artist's creative language is simple but deep and meaningful. The artist skillfully synthesizes Ukrainian artistic traditions with individual approaches. Zalyvakha comprehends the most challenging categories: the essence of human life, freedom, the eternal search for truth, and rebellion against the system. In his art, he raised the issue of forced resettlement of people, cultural expansion, and the genocide of the Ukrainians in the USSR. He was imprisoned for 5 years for "anti-Soviet agitation and propaganda" in a camp in Mordovia, Russia. In 1995, Opanas Zalivakha was awarded the highest state award of Ukraine for developing culture and art - the Taras Shevchenko National Award. The artist's works were exhibited in Ukraine, the USA, Canada and Europe.

The artist reflects on Ukrainian folklore, seeks to find an answer to the question "Who are we?" and finds Ukrainian identity in its reinterpretation. The painting "Buds" is reminiscent of ancient plant ornaments, which our Ukrainian ancestors often used in embroideries or carpets. Opanas Zalyvakha contemplates nature and its colors. The entire canvas space is filled with abundant shoots, but instead of buds, we see the faces of people of different ages. Rhythmically stretching upwards, they appeal to the viewer, encouraging him to find his roots and understand his history.