Re/Evolution" art exhibition opened on March 1, 2024, in "Maximum Work & Education" gallery, Novi Sad, Serbia. This project, produced by Aleh Razhkou, is an example of an outstanding collaboration of unique professionals.

List of participants:

Enari Kate

Mika Stetsovski

Daniil Iova

Anastasia Goryacheva

Ksenia Semenova

Artemii Pogodin

Artem Skripnikov

Diana Kozlova

Alexander Privalov

Nelly Burenina

Alisa Golovkina

Eduard Fadiushin 

Ana Andreeva

Maria Yanovskaya

Elena Shilova

Elena Timokhina

Siarhei Yazlavetski

"Re/Evolution" invites you on a transformative journey through the captivating intersections of art and evolution. This groundbreaking exhibition showcases a diverse array of works that delve into the theme of evolution, exploring the dynamic processes of change and adaptation across multiple dimensions.

From the moment you step into the gallery, you’re immersed in a world of creativity and discovery. The exhibition unfolds like a living organism, evolving before your eyes with each thought-provoking piece.

Explore the evolution of perception and perspective in a collection of vibrant paintings and captivating photographs. From abstract expressions of genetic diversity to surreal visions of environmental transformation, each artwork offers a unique lens through which to contemplate the complexities of evolution.

Each participant in the exhibition (photographer, artist, digital artist, writer, producer) is primarily an inventor of a unique artistic method for examining, researching, deconstructing, or reinventing the theme of evolution. I highly recommend that you follow their creative careers. Below, I would like to tell you about the most important works in this exhibition.

"Filling" by Artemii Pogodin

“Our human essence is like layers—layers of life, knowledge, and experience. It represents the evolution of who we are. Bright and joyous moments are filled with light hues, yet there are also upheavals that are coloured with shades of crimson. These are the moments we often refer to as revolutionary.” 

Artemii Pogodin’s digital artwork "Filling" from 2021 is a captivating exploration of the layers that make up each of us. In the realm of contemporary art, digital art has become a dominant force, and Pogodin is one of the artists at the forefront of this movement. He actively engages with the medium, constantly experimenting and exploring new methods of digital visualisation.

In "Filling," Pogodin combines various styles of graphics and 2D/3D animation, ranging from simple shapes and abstractions to character animation and video effects. The artwork delves into the idea of accumulation over time—experiences, emotions, self-perceptions, knowledge about others—all building up within us like layers. Pogodin visually represents these layers in different colours, shapes, thicknesses, and volumes, symbolising the complexity of each individual.

By portraying these intricate layers that exist within every person, Pogodin invites viewers to contemplate the essence of human nature. Through a friendly tone, the artist encourages us to explore and understand the depth of our own being by recognising and appreciating the diverse layers that shape us. "Filling" serves as a visual metaphor for the richness and complexity of the human experience, reminding us of the importance of self-reflection and empathy in today’s interconnected world.

"Sunrise" by Daniil Iova

“The transition from the old and outdated to the new is captured beautifully as the bright sun rises, vibrant and warm. Isn’t this the essence of ®evolution? Witnessing a shift in eras within the confines of a single moment, just within the gaze of your eyes” 

Daniil Iova’s photo "Sunrise," taken in 2023, beautifully shows the sun rising against a dark sky. The sun’s fiery rays break through the horizon, casting a celestial glow on the scene. The moving clouds in the sky add a dynamic touch to the picture.

In "Sunrise," Iova cleverly contrasts movement and stillness, light and darkness, warmth and cold, and old and new. These opposing elements merging along the horizon create a sense of harmony and balance in the frame.

The artist’s ability to capture nature’s subtle beauty shines in "Sunrise." By capturing this fleeting moment, Iova invites viewers to think about the natural world’s dualities and appreciate the brief yet profound beauty of a sunrise.

"Loneliness" by Artem Skripnikov

“The periods of solitude themselves are revolutionary. It is during these times that one is left alone to reflect and grow. There is no external noise, no voices of others to distract you.” 

Artem Skripnikov’s artistic photography offers a captivating insight into the transformative power of solitude. Through his lens, Skripnikov skillfully captures the essence of moments spent in introspective isolation, presenting them as revolutionary opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

Skripnikov’s images transport viewers into a realm where solitude is not a burden but a sanctuary for personal evolution. Each photograph exudes a profound beauty that lies in the quiet contemplation and inner exploration that accompany moments of aloneness. By inviting viewers to peer into these contemplative scenes, Skripnikov encourages us to embrace the inherent value of solitude as a vital catalyst for self-discovery and introspection.

In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, Skripnikov’s work serves as a gentle reminder of the intrinsic beauty and transformative potential that loneliness can offer. It encourages us to see solitude not as a void to be filled but as a space ripe for introspection, growth, and enlightenment.

Through his evocative imagery, Skripnikov invites us to reflect on our own journeys of self-exploration and contemplation, inspiring us to embrace the quiet moments that allow us to delve deep into our inner selves. Ultimately, Skripnikov’s photographs serve as a poignant celebration of solitude, emphasising its role as a fertile ground for personal transformation and inner awakening.

"The Baker" (story) by Elena Timokhina

“In the midst of the current emphasis on chaos and uncertainty all around the world, we witness the transformative power of a single soul’s courage to defy the odds in "The Baker” by Elena Timokhina. Timokhina’s story explores the paradox of human existence, where even the tiniest spark of hope can ignite a revolution within, inspiring countless others to join in solidarity.” 

"The Baker" by Elena Timokhina is a captivating tale that pictures the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, beautifully illustrated through the usage of various contemporary writing techniques. Throughout the narrative, Timokhina employs vivid imagery to paint a detailed picture of Petr’s daily struggle, using descriptive language to convey his perseverance amidst challenging circumstances. The repetition of Petr’s journey up the 384 steps to his bakery on Liteyny Avenue in St. Petersburg, Russia, serves as a powerful motif, symbolising his defiance against the Nazi occupation and an ultimate accomplishment of maintaining inner metal strength and balance in a time of turmoil in the outer world.

Timokhina masterfully crafts Petr’s character as a stoic and resolute figure, utilising characterization to depict his unwavering determination in the face of loss and hardship. By portraying Petr’s steadfast commitment to his routine as a source of inspiration for the community, the author effectively showcases the strength of human resilience and the ability to find solace in familiar rituals.

Furthermore, Timokhina skillfully weaves a sense of unity among the residents of Liteyny Avenue, employing symbolism to highlight the collective admiration for Petr’s character. The visual imagery of the grey-bearded man braving harsh weather conditions is a vivid metaphor for the enduring spirit and courage of individuals facing overwhelming challenges.

In "The Baker," Timokhina celebrates the courage and fortitude of the human spirit through evocative storytelling and the use of the characteristic blend of traditional and contemporary writing techniques that defines the writer’s style. By emphasising Petr’s unwavering resolve and the solidarity of the community, the author effectively conveys a message of strength, resistance, and hope in times of darkness.

"Crosswalks" by Alisa Golovkina

“The photo captures the cultural evolution and street life of Los Angeles. Crosswalks serve as intersections where people from diverse backgrounds come together, reflecting the city’s vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape.” 

Alisa Golovkina’s photographic compositions offer a mesmerising exploration of the interplay between light, shadow, and texture. With a keen eye for detail, Golovkina captures fleeting moments of tranquilly and beauty, inviting viewers into intimate scenes that resonate with emotion. Through her lens, everyday objects and landscapes are transformed into captivating studies of form and colour, evoking a sense of timelessness and serenity. 

Golovkina’s work showcases a diverse range of subjects, from the natural world to urban landscapes, each imbued with a sense of quiet contemplation and poetic sensibility. Her mastery of composition and use of light imbue her images with a sense of depth and atmosphere, drawing viewers into immersive visual narratives. Through her work, Golovkina invites us to pause, to breathe, and to find beauty in the ordinary moments of life. In a world often characterised by chaos and noise, her photographs offer a welcome respite, reminding us of the profound power of stillness and observation in capturing the essence of the human experience.

"Evolution" by Mika Stetsovski

“It takes a long time to evolve from 0 to 1, but once the process starts, it cannot be turned over. Beware of the small drops of change. A day will come when they become a sea”

Mika Stetsovski’s work draws attention with a universal metaphor: water droplets resting on bright green leaves. This imagery reflects both the natural process of evolution and the continuation of life (as everything originates from water). It also symbolically represents evolution as an idea of eternal change, starting from a single drop. 

Technically, these photographs clearly were not particularly difficult to capture, but the moment they captured is absolutely unique. They show the starting point (represented by the drops) of a long journey of changes to come.

"Timeless" by Nelly Burenina

“Through evolution, the enduring bond between dogs and humans transcends time. Life changes, but their love remains eternal. Witness the timeless connection captured in this frame.” 

Nelly Burenina, a photographer known for her poignant black-and-white images, showcases a profound understanding of human connections and the intricate relationship between people and nature. Her work delves into the essence of these relationships, capturing moments that go far beyond mere documentation. Burenina’s photographs evoke a sense of intimacy and emotional depth, drawing viewers into the subtle nuances of each frame.

In the work "Timeless," the photographer seems to utilize all the possibilities of their boundless creativity. This work simultaneously touches and amazes, provokes emotions, and leaves one perplexed

"Backwards" by Anastasia Goryacheva

“We came from water; for the most part, we consist of it, and at the end of our lives, we will dissolve and become water. Is it a strength or a weakness to accept the circumstances in which you find yourself? To change yourself or change what is around you?” 

“Let everything continually return. This is the highest degree of rapprochement between the future and the existing world; in this eternal return is the highest point of thinking.” Friedrich Nietzsche

This shot by Anastasia Goryacheva captures transience, frailty, monumental eternity, and eternal space.

A man-child, a small grain of sand against the background of the vastness of heaven. And at the same time, the man here is a titan against the backdrop of the city. The city is separated from the clouds by a thin strip of horizon. In this case, the person is the centre of the frame composition. There is no answer here, only the question: Quo vadis, Domine? This profound philosophical work has the ability to make people ponder the potential of art to influence our perception of reality, and therein lies its liberating potential.

"Generation of the Pomegranate Man" by Eduard Fadiushin

“The old world is over. Non-standard solutions are essential in order to create a new person. The artist “crosses” an egg and a pomegranate that are fundamentally different in their genetics. The effect is enhanced by the combination of blood-red and pastel colours. The Pomegranate Man is full of seeds—his ideas. But he has to develop thick skin so as not to lose himself.”

Faydiushin’s work is an example of a unique combination of unparalleled professionalism and paradoxical attention to detail. The artist explores evolution as a reversible process that goes beyond human judgements of linearity and non-linearity. It is an impressive process of how the artist overcomes their own boundaries of professionalism and status quo as a human being. In the paintings of Eduard Fadiushin, one can see the traditions of many areas of modern art. This is an original attempt to synthesise pictorial languages for an adequate visualisation of the modern world. The professional skill of the artist makes this world bright and harmonious externally, inviting the viewer to comprehend its inner complexity and ambiguity. This art is born before our eyes; it is unusual, acute, and emotional.

"Waiting" by Ksenia Semenova

“The collage "Waiting" invites reflection on how we perceive time in our lives. The familiar phrase "just wait" ceases to be commonplace and transforms into a desperate question, a slowing of time in anticipation that can be unbearable” 

The artwork titled "Waiting" by Ksenia Semenova is a thought-provoking exploration of the concept of time and its impact on our lives. In her description, 

Semenova highlights the transformation of the commonplace phrase "just wait" into something more profound and emotionally charged.

The collage conveys a sense of anticipation and the subjective experience of time slowing down. This theme is particularly evident in the artist’s choice of "desperate" to describe the question that arises from waiting. Using collage as a medium adds layers to the interpretation, suggesting a combination of diverse elements that contribute to the complex emotions associated with waiting.

The viewer is prompted to reflect on their relationship with time and the emotional weight that waiting can carry. The transformation of a simple expression into a profound inquiry challenges the conventional understanding of waiting, inviting the audience to delve into the psychological and emotional aspects of the human experience.

Overall, "Waiting" appears to be a nuanced piece that goes beyond its visual elements, encouraging observers to consider the subjective nature of time and the emotional intensity embedded in the act of waiting.

"Evolutionary Reflections 1, 2" by Alexander Privalov

“A luminous fruit resembling a lemon bursts forth with vibrant energy in the first painting of the diptych. Contrastingly, the second painting reveals a similar fruit in decay. While “Evolutionary Reflections 1” exudes wonder and possibility, “Evolutionary Reflections 2” serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility" 

In “Evolutionary Reflections” by Alexander Privalov, the artist employs tempera on cardboard to convey a captivating narrative. The artwork features a surreal lemon-like fruit undergoing a transformation, serving as a sad metaphor for life—a journey where evolution and decay intertwine. The first painting portrays the fruit in its vibrant, evolving state, while the second depicts it in a state of deterioration, symbolising the passage of time. A notable shift in colour palette from bold hues in the first part of the diptych to a more subdued, yellowish-green tone in the second reinforces the theme of transition and the inevitability of degradation. Privalov’s choice of medium lends a raw and immediate quality to the artwork, as if capturing a fleeting moment of introspection.

Technically straightforward, Privalov’s paintings encapsulate the duality of existence—the journey from inception to conclusion. They serve as a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life, inviting viewers to contemplate the cyclical process of growth and decay that defines the human experience.

The artist plays with the very meaning of a 'Still Life.' As a genre, it’s special. It is, essentially, a suspended life, a non-life, a matter on the brink of decay. After all, to be placed into a picturesque composition, all the components of a still life must be lifeless. The fish must be caught and sedated, the game shot, the fruits plucked. Since a lemon traditionally symbolizes the bitterness of life, Privalov ironically refers not only to works of the Lesser Dutchmen, famous still life masters, but also to the didactic Russian paintings of the 1860s-1890s, once again presenting himself as a traditionalist, well-versed in the history of art.

"Information" by Enari Kate

Information is something in itself neutral. Everything is information; even a person’s personality is nothing but a set of information. Information is not good or evil; it all depends on who uses it. 

The artwork "Information" portrays a thought-provoking scene that captures the relationship between humans and technology in the digital age. In this captivating piece, a girl is depicted sitting in opposition to a television, with an intriguing twist—an eye can be seen inside the screen.

This artwork invites viewers to critically reflect on the impact of technology and the vast amount of information we encounter daily. It prompts us to question how this constant exposure to information influences our values, beliefs, and ultimately, our identity. Additionally, it encourages self-awareness and mindfulness in navigating the digital realm, urging us to actively shape our relationship with technology rather than passively accepting the information it presents.

The work conveys to the viewer a bordering psychological sensation, akin to a blend of emotional numbness and apathetic drowsiness. This aesthetic impression of immense power indicates the maturity and strength of Enari Kate’s artistic concept.

"Venus" by Siarhei Yazlavetski

"Standing amidst the raw grandeur of Iceland’s windswept coast, Yazlavetski captures moments of ethereal beauty that transcend conventional reality. Through his lens, the familiar landscape is transfigured into a surreal tableau reminiscent of an alien world, evoking the mystique and allure of Venus" 

In Yazlavetski’s work, the earth takes on hues of purple, the cliffs shimmer with otherworldly colours, and the horizon blurs the line between Earth and the cosmos. In this realm of boundless imagination, Yazlavetski invites viewers to venture beyond the constraints of ordinary perception and embrace the extraordinary.

Each photograph in the "Venus" series is a vivid showcase of the artist’s mastery of light, composition, and perspective. Through his peculiar application of filters, Yazlavetski reveals the hidden dimensions of the natural world, inviting us to reconsider our preconceptions and embrace the possibilities of the unknown. In the solitude of the Icelandic coast, he finds not only artistic inspiration but also a profound connection to the limitless potential of human vision.

As viewers engage with Yazlavetski’s work, they are transported to a realm where the boundaries between reality and imagination dissolve. Through his photography practice, he captures the essence of revolution in human perception, challenging us to question the limitations of our vision and embrace the transformative power of art. In the ever-shifting landscape of "Venus," Yazlavetski invites us to embark on a journey of discovery, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and the impossible becomes possible.

"Dwellings/Spatial Study" by Ana Andreeva

“Dwellings/Spatial Study” is research into the relationships between architecture and space. It’s a series of collages created from photography taken in various countries between 2017 and 2022. The photographs of landscapes are combined with photographs of buildings, following modernist doctrines. Exploring the evolution of buildings in comparison with nature" 

Ana Andreeva, a visual artist based in Brooklyn, New York, has conducted research into the relationship between architecture and space. Her series of collages, created from photographs taken in various countries between 2017 and 2022, combine landscapes with images of buildings, adhering to modernist doctrines. Through her work, she explores the evolution of buildings in comparison to nature, delving into their interconnectedness. Utilising various media, including digital art, creative coding, collage, photography, and artificial intelligence, Ana delves into different themes and systems in art. She works in series, deeply examining topics and concepts related to architecture and space. Her creative approach allows her to reinterpret everyday objects and create visual images that provoke thought in the viewer. Ana Andreeva is an artist whose work reflects the importance of the relationship between humans, architecture, and nature in the contemporary world.

Ana Andreeva blurs the boundaries between the real and the phenomenal, creating artworks that transcend conventional notions of space and reality. She employs a blend of creative and technical skills to achieve remarkable detail in her pieces, immersing viewers deeply into the depicted spaces. Her ability to merge artistic expression with technical precision results in captivating visual experiences that challenge perceptions and evoke emotional responses. Through her work, Andreeva invites audiences to reconsider their understanding of the world around them and to explore new dimensions of possibility.

"Crossroad sign" by Mariya Yanovskaya 

"Humans often stand at a crossroads. This is part of the series "Growth, Transition," where every moment is analysed from different angles, and the older you get, the differently you look at where your path is and where to turn" 

Maria Yanovskaya, an art photographer, offers a profound reflection on the transient nature of time and the fragility of human choice and path through her practice, which revolves around the exploration of the surrounding world and her journeys within it. Despite her relatively short tenure in the industry, Yanovskaya’s photography captures moments that penetrate to the core, resonating with audiences of all ages. Leveraging her life experiences, she skillfully employs metaphors about the human journey and decision-making in her work.

Yanovskaya’s artistry extends beyond mere documentation; she adeptly plays with metaphors about human paths and decisions. Her use of colour, light, and contrast allows her to manipulate composition within the frame, captivating viewers' attention and leading their thoughts inward. Through her lens, she invites viewers on a contemplative journey, prompting them to ponder the deeper meanings behind the images.

In her photographic series, Yanovskaya navigates the intricate relationship between the built environment and the natural world. Overall, Maria Yanovskaya’s work transcends traditional photography, offering viewers a window into the complexities of the human experience.

"Producer as an artist"

Aleh Razhkou, the producer behind the "Re/Evolution" exhibit, embodies a forward-thinking approach to curating transformative artistic narratives. With a profound understanding of the dynamic interplay between art and evolution, Razhkou cultivates experiences that transcend the ordinary and challenge conventional perspectives. His method is distinguished by an acute sensitivity to the diverse voices and visions within the artistic community, coupled with a commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering dialogue. Through strategic curation and an unwavering dedication to emerging independent artistic voices, Razhkou creates a space where artists are encouraged to explore the complexities of the evolution of contemporary art in all its forms, inviting audiences to engage with art as a catalyst for introspection and growth. In his hands, the gallery became a vibrant platform for exploration and discovery, where the evolving playground of human experience unfolds in mesmerising and unexpected ways.

As you navigate through "Re/Evolution", you’re invited to engage with the art on a deeper level, exploring your own beliefs and perceptions in the process. Through interactive exhibits and guided discussions, the exhibition fosters dialogue about the ethical implications of evolution and the role of art in shaping our understanding of change.

With its thought-provoking blend of creativity, insight, and innovation, "Re/Evolution" offers a captivating exploration of evolution’s profound impact on the human experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a science aficionado, or simply curious about the world around you, this exhibition promises to inspire, challenge, and enlighten.

Author: Jenya Stashkov, artist and art critic, Sheffield, UK