“Root”
Is the first piece in an unfolding series of 6ft x 7ft oil paintings on canvas. This project came to life as a way for Nadia to unravel her thoughts last Spring. It is a tangled collection of all her favorite threads of memories. Fabric plays an integral role in her life. The clothing she collects and wears daily reminds her of special places, wisdoms gleaned, and cultural traditions passed down to her through her Eastern European heritage.
From a young age, her immigrant grandparents taught her to repair her clothing and overtime this practice has become a rewarding part of her identity. Here is a sewing vessel spilled over on its side revealing its tangled insides; shiny threads, sparkly beads, and bits of textiles collected. Throughout this painting process, Nadia hopes to add more to this overflowing box of mis-matched memories and learn more about her heritage and self, as well as other’s relationship to fabric.
“Root” featured solo in Diaphanous Fashion Show at Lucid Motors
“Root” made its debut at a captivating fashion show presented by JuledaAtelier at Lucid Motors Showroom in Goose Island, Chicago in October 2023.
Fusion of Art, Fashion, & Sustainability
The painting was displayed as a stand alone piece, parallel to the runway and created colorful unison with each model coming down the catwalk. The enchanting evening was dedicated to the intersection of fashion, art, and sustainability and showcased innovate designs by up-and-coming Chicago designers, vibrant colors, and eco-friendly materials. Pictured: Nadia wearing outfit designed and handmade by Chicago designer Madeleine Ibach.
“Into”
Is the second painting in the unfolding triptych series of oil paintings Nadia has been creating since April of 2023. This body of work explores the ways in which fabric and fashion hold stories, preserve culture, and curate memory.
What began as experimentation with oil paint, has now turned into a collage of Nadia’s reflections about her Ukrainian heritage and personal items that hold significance to her. She is drawn to the complexity and rich history of folk patterns from her culture and pays honor to these facets through her work.
“Into” debut at Mana Contemporary Chicago
Among some of Chicago’s most unique and cutting-edge artists, “Into” was recently featured alongside it’s companion piece “Root” in group show Warmth in the Concrete Jungle hosted by Squitieri95 held at Mana Contemporary Chicago.
One more painting in the series remains to be completed.