On Friday, July 1, Kathryn Markel Fine Arts in Bridgehampton opens “Reclamation: A Group Exhibition” featuring 14 artists from Ukraine and the East End, with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. Curated by Heidi Lee Komaromi, the show was a result of thinking about the painful realities of the Ukrainian war, and the poignant idea of reclaiming something lost, stolen, or forgotten, and returning it to a former or better state. It is evocative of not just notions of loss but also offers a semblance of hope in the current context of nonsensical atrocities.
“We are excited to present this exhibition which we feel is an appropriate response to the dire situation in Ukraine. It is an insightful and heartfelt curation,” states gallery owner Kathyrn Markel. “The effects of the war are far-reaching and ‘Reclamation’ offers a sensitive and poignant perspective.”
Featured artists are: Evan Brownstein, Philippe Cheng, Yuliana Yaman, Pipi Deer, Jeremy Dennis, Caroline Gerry, Chelsea Hyrnick Browne, Elena Lyakir, Eric Slayton, Caroline Snow, Kevin Teare, Paulina Olowska, Suzannah Wainhouse and Mark Wilson.
The works on view offer a unique perspective around notions of loss, identity, place, hope. Through the lens of reclamation, certain revelations or truths about our society and culture emerge through the works of art, whether it refers to freedom, ancestral homelands, humanity, mother nature or otherwise.
“It is fascinating to me that so many artists’ works touch upon this concept in one way or another,” said Komaromi. “The response was overwhelming.”
Outdoors in the hydrangea garden will be installed a large-scale sculpture by Evan Brownstein with which visitors are welcome to interact. New paintings by Nova Scotia based painter, Sara Mcculloch will be on view in the downstairs gallery.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit Direct Relief to provide medical aid to Ukraine. The show will run through July 25.
Kathryn Markel Fine Arts is at 2418 Montauk Highway in Bridgehampton. Visit markelfinearts.com for details.
Staff Writer on Jun 27, 2022