“I work with the theme of delving into my subconscious and trying to reveal unconscious feelings and thoughts in my works” – Yuriy Vatkin
In Jeenalavie, there are no limits to one's imagination. Building a community where artists may flourish and share their work is one of our top priorities. We bring together a curated assortment of beautiful arts and crafts from all over the world, showcasing the rich artistic traditions that exist in every corner of the globe. The life of every artist and craftsperson is fascinating, and each work of art has many tales to tell. We will stop at nothing to pull them up and facilitate the sharing of their distinctive viewpoints with those who share their values. Here in this particular corner, we will present our community with introductions to our incredibly brilliant creators.
Our creator for today is Ukrainian Impressionist Artist, Yuriy Vatkin. He is not only an impressionist artist but a master of abstraction and color.
A Closer Look Into the Vatkin’s Early Life:
Yuriy Vatkin's artistic journey began in the industrial city of Dnipropetrovsk in 1975. Two years later, his family relocated to Kharkiv, where Vatkin's early years were infused with the city's vibrant culture and artistic energy. It was during this time that he first encountered the world of art, receiving private lessons from Kharkiv graphic artist and educator, Oleksandr Bragin, between 1989 and 1991.
At the age of 16, Vatkin's passion for art led him to pursue formal education at the Kharkiv Art and Industrial Institute, where he immersed himself in the study of industrial design for three years, from 1991 to 1994. However, upon completing his studies, Vatkin veered away from his artistic pursuits, venturing into agriculture. For many years, he dedicated himself to his agricultural enterprise, setting aside his brushes and canvases.
It wasn't until 2008 that Vatkin's artistic spark was reignited. A chance encounter with his former teacher, Oleksandr Bragin, served as a catalyst, reminding him of his dormant talent and reigniting his passion for art. Inspired by Bragin's encouragement, Vatkin embarked on a journey to rediscover his creative voice, marking the beginning of a remarkable return to the world of art.
Vatkin’s Renewed Vigor in his Artistic Journey:
In 2008, Yuriy Vatkin's artistic path took a decisive turn as he became a member of the Kharkiv branch of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his formal recognition within the artistic community, providing him with a platform to showcase his talents and connect with fellow artists. Two years later, in 2010, Vatkin's creative journey reached a milestone with his inaugural solo exhibition at the Kharkiv Art Museum. This exhibition served as a testament to his rekindled passion and dedication, showcasing a body of work crafted in less than a year since his return to the canvas. It was a momentous occasion that heralded the start of Vatkin's career as a professional artist.
From 2010 to 2022, Vatkin's artistic endeavors flourished as he continued to captivate audiences with his evocative creations. He held a total of seven solo exhibitions across Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Great Britain, each one a testament to his artistic evolution and mastery. Additionally, Vatkin actively participated in three collective projects within Ukraine, further cementing his presence in the vibrant art scene. Despite his growing recognition and success, Vatkin remained deeply connected to his roots, residing with his family in his native village of Cherkasy Tyshki near Kharkiv until 2022. During this time, he generously contributed to local cultural institutions such as the Kharkiv Art Museum and the Puppet Theater, while also supporting community initiatives such as the construction of a village church. Vatkin's unwavering commitment to his art and community underscored his status as a talented artist and a compassionate and engaged citizen.
The Effect of the War on Artist’s Life:
The onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, brought about profound challenges for Yuriy Vatkin and his family, who found themselves trapped in Cherkasy Tyshky under occupation. Amidst the chaos of war, tragedy struck on the 20th of March, when Yuriya Street, where Vatkin resided, became a target of a devastating attack with cluster bombs. One such bomb struck Vatkin's home, tearing through the roof and scattering debris over his cherished collection of paintings and the house itself. Despite the harrowing circumstances, Vatkin and his son managed to endure the ordeal for 72 agonizing days before finally escaping the village.
In the wake of the occupation and the destruction wrought upon his home, Vatkin found solace and expression in his art. He channeled his experiences and emotions into a series of paintings aptly titled "War." These poignant works serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, offering a glimpse into the artist's personal journey through turmoil and survival. Through his art, Vatkin not only captures the stark reality of war but also confronts its impact on the lives of ordinary people, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten amidst the chaos of conflict.
The Evolution of Vatkin’s Creativity:
Yuriy Vatkin's artistic journey is marked by a profound evolution in creativity, reflecting his deep-seated passion for self-expression and exploration. From his early fascination with art in youth, which manifested in a myriad of children's drawings, to his transformative encounter with Oleksandr Bragin in 2008, Vatkin embarked on a quest to discover his own unique artistic voice. Initially delving into realistic works, Vatkin's style underwent a radical metamorphosis over a span of just a year and a half, transitioning towards expressive landscapes and mood-driven compositions.
In this artistic odyssey, Vatkin's approach to painting underwent a significant shift. While the depiction of actual landscapes once held prominence, it gradually yielded to a more emotive exploration of color and the visceral experience of nature. Although Vatkin draws inspiration from the French Impressionists and German Expressionists, he remains steadfastly independent, eschewing allegiance to any particular artistic school. Over the course of a few short years, Vatkin's artistic journey traversed from realism to the realm of free creativity and abstraction.
Central to Vatkin's artistic philosophy is the notion that each painting serves as a window into his innermost emotional state at the time of its creation. Themes of introspection and immersion in the subconscious pervade his work, as he seeks to unveil unconscious feelings and thoughts through vibrant, saturated colors and bold, three-dimensional strokes. Vatkin's paintings pulsate with life, capturing the essence of his emotional landscape and inviting viewers on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation.
Some of Vatkin’s Greatest Artworks:
-
Love in The Air: Immerse yourself in the comforting memories of your youth with "Love In The Air," a mesmerizing masterpiece created by Vatkin in 2022. "Love In The Air" is more than just a painting; it's a moving tribute to the powerful feelings that come with being a teenager. Alluding to the artist's teenage years, this piece captures the feeling of falling in love. The artist's words flow across the painting, amplifying the sound of love through a deluge of emotions - joy, terror, and hopelessness. You can practically hear a beating heart telling the tale of love's voyage as you look at this artwork.
-
Lunch at The Tiles: Stunning and evocative, "Lunch At The Tiles" (2022) is an acrylic on canvas work of art that captures the joy of friendship and community. Envision the satisfaction of enjoying a lovely lunchtime get-together with your best friend. When friends gather to share tales, words of wisdom, and meaningful talks, "Lunch At The Tiles" perfectly depicts the spirit of those special times. Yuriy Vatkin does an excellent job of transporting you into the lives of a group of friends who are deeply committed to one another through their friendly friendship.
-
Winter Sweater: Embrace the tranquility with "Winter Sweater," an enchanting acrylic piece that captures the essence of a perfect winter day basking in the sun. Beautifully painted in 2021, it takes you to a garden blanketed in snow and bathed in the warm light of sunshine. Immerse yourself in a tranquil winter daydream as you experience the tranquility and warmth of this setting.
-
Ray of Morning Sun: Enter a realm where the very spirit of spring is brought to life. With deft grace, "Ray of Morning Sun" portrays the delicate charm of an apple tree laden with abundant white-pink blooms, each one ornamented with a brilliant yellow center that releases a calming and delicious aroma. The art of Yuriy Vatkin transports you to a world of sensual delights, where the harmony of nature's symphony beckons you to lose yourself in its beauty.