Ukrainian artist Maya Kolesnik is currently an Artist at Risk (AR) Resident at Story Villa Heinävaara.
Kolesnik shares her powerful experience as an artist at risk. In her words: «Fear ceased to be fear, nights and days merged into one, smoke on the horizon and cityscapes reminiscent of Hirschhorn and Op de Beeck installations became commonplace. — Relocation saved at least two lives; my daughter attends school without missile strikes interrupting her lessons. The residence is both inspiration and rehabilitation for me, a hope for life.»
In the serene, historical space of Story Villa Heinävaara, Kolesnik continues her artistic journey, channeling her energy into mixed media pieces. The former village school, now an artist residency, offers her a sanctuary for creativity and reflection. Kolesnik wishes to thank Sirpa, the owner of the residence, for offering her space with peaceful surroundings which offer both peace and security as well as inspiration and creative discovery.
Kolesnik’s works are exhibited at the “Woman in times of war” art exhibition in Helsinki at Venetsia-talo in Lapinlahden Lähde from 19 September to 30 November. Earlier this year in July, Kolesnik exhibited her works at a solo exhibition in Myymälä2, a Helsinki-based gallery.
Kolesnik has shared pictures from her residency at Story Villa Heinävaara with Artists at Risk.
Learn more about Story Villa Heinävaara: https://storyvilla.fi/
Documentation of ‘Bad Blood’ solo exhibition by Maya Kolesnik: https://artistsatrisk.org/2024/08/07/documentation-of-bad-blood-by-maya-kolesnik/?lang=en
