Renata Asanova

Visual artist

ResidencyBakota Hub

Hosting periodAutumn 2023

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BIO

My name is Renata Asanova. I am an artist living and working in Kyiv. In my creative pursuits, I explore themes of God, religion, and the feminine essence. I employ various techniques, including oil painting, graphics, pastels, and acrylics. Currently, I am focus- ing on two series: one reflects the ecological issues stemming from the russian war against Ukraine, and the other is dedicated to my personal quest for identity through art. My works have been exhibited internationally in Berlin and Lithuania. A print of one of my paintings was successfully sold at a charity auction, with proceeds supporting war-affected soldiers. My art is an attempt to portray the most vital aspects of the human experience, particularly how recent events impact our perception of the world and ourselves. Through art, I explore new avenues of self-expression and engage with the audience, prompting viewers to contemplate profound questions of existence and personal growth.

Story of experience of risk, relocation and/or exile

After a full-scale invasion and constant threats from the terrorist state of russia, I had to leave the city where I lived. This decision arose due to continuous air alarms and rocket attacks that not only posed a threat to my personal life but also significantly restricted opportunities for my artistic development. The relocation took place amidst stress and uncertainty, but it was a necessary step to preserve my life and continue my creative pursuits. Despite the challenges, a few weeks later, I decided to return to continue my artistic activities. It was a difficult decision as the risk to personal safety persisted, but the desire to dedicate myself to art and contribute to the development of culture became my primary motivation.

 

Projects created during the residency period

The painting series «Crimea and Home» explores the cultural and religious dualism that I feel within myself. It offers viewers the opportunity to delve into the world of personal exploration and reflections on self-definition and shared values of the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar peoples. The project aims to stimulate discussions on the preservation of cultural heritage, especially in the face of threats to its destruction. My works reflect the common goal of Crimean Tatars and Ukrainians — the preservation of their national identity. This project is also my personal journey in search of answers to the questions «who am I» and how my roots and identity influence my art and life.

Residency: Bakota Hub

While staying at the ‘Bakota Hub’ residency, I gained an incredible experience that significantly influenced my creativity. The environment in the village of Horayivka allowed me to immerse myself in tranquility and natural beauty, becoming a tremendous source of inspiration for my artistic process.

Watch video about Renata here.

This programme is organised by Perpetuum Mobile (PM) as part of the Artists at Risk (AR)-Network in partnership with UNESCO and with the support of Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts and Teiger Foundation.

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