Tanya Vasilenko’s Choice of Values is a thought-provoking artwork that masterfully intertwines the concepts of time, morality, and human agency. Created in 2016 as part of her “Time” series, this acrylic painting explores how historical periods shape their own heroes and legacies, prompting viewers to reflect on their personal choices and the values they uphold. Measuring 78.7 x 70.9 inches, the painting is as grand in scale as it is in philosophical depth.

The Artist: Tanya Vasilenko

Born in Kyiv, Ukraine, in 1977, Tanya Vasilenko is a renowned artist celebrated for her innovative “volumetric painting” technique. She graduated from the Kyiv State Institute of Applied Arts and Design, where she honed her unique blend of conceptual, expressionist, and surrealist styles. Her work often addresses profound themes such as time, history, and morality, inviting viewers to engage in deep introspection.

Vasilenko’s artistic approach is marked by her use of heavy paint textures, which create a raised, tactile surface on the canvas. This technique not only adds a sense of depth but also draws viewers into the physicality of her work. Choice of Values exemplifies her ability to merge conceptual rigor with technical innovation, making it a standout piece in her oeuvre.

The “Time” Series: A Philosophical Exploration

Choice of Values is part of Vasilenko’s “Time” series, a collection of paintings that investigate the multifaceted nature of time and its impact on human history. The series draws inspiration from various historical periods, including Ancient Egypt, the Renaissance, and the modern age, each of which shaped distinct moral frameworks and cultural legacies.

Central to this series is the idea that time is both cyclical and eternal, with past, present, and future existing simultaneously. Vasilenko’s work challenges viewers to consider their role within this continuum, emphasizing the importance of moral responsibility and the choices we make in shaping the future.

The Composition of Choice of Values

Visual Elements

At the heart of Choice of Values is a prominent clock face, symbolizing the omnipresence of time and its cyclical nature. The circular dial serves as a metaphor for the eternal return, a philosophical concept suggesting that all events in history repeat in an infinite loop.

The painting’s palette features earthy tones and metallic accents, evoking a sense of timelessness and universality. The clock’s hands are abstract, suggesting that time is not linear but fluid, subject to interpretation and human influence. Surrounding the clock are textured layers of paint, creating a sense of movement and dynamism that mirrors the constant flow of time.

Symbolism and Themes

Vasilenko’s use of the clock as a central motif invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with time. It challenges the notion of time as a passive backdrop to human activity, instead portraying it as an active force that shapes and is shaped by our choices.

The painting also incorporates subtle references to historical artifacts, such as ancient symbols and architectural forms. These elements underscore the idea that each era leaves a unique imprint on history, shaped by its values and priorities.

Volumetric Painting: A Unique Technique

One of the most striking aspects of Choice of Values is Vasilenko’s use of volumetric painting, a technique that combines heavy paint textures with intricate layering. This approach creates a raised surface on the canvas, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork not just visually but also tactilely.

The texture of the painting adds depth and dimension, making the clock face appear almost sculptural. This physicality enhances the viewer’s experience, creating a sense of immersion that mirrors the complexity of the themes being explored.

Volumetric painting also serves a conceptual purpose in Choice of Values. The raised textures evoke the layers of history and memory, suggesting that time is not a flat, linear sequence but a rich tapestry of interconnected moments.

Cultural and Philosophical Significance

A Reflection on Moral Responsibility

At its core, Choice of Values is a meditation on the choices we make and the legacies we leave behind. The painting encourages viewers to reflect on their values and consider how their actions shape the world around them.

This message is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly changing world, where technological advancements and global challenges demand greater awareness and ethical responsibility. By emphasizing the interconnectedness of past, present, and future, Vasilenko’s work reminds us that our choices have far-reaching consequences.

The Eternal Return and Human Agency

The concept of the eternal return, central to Choice of Values, raises profound questions about human agency. If history is cyclical, do we have the power to break free from patterns of the past? Or are we destined to repeat the same mistakes?

Vasilenko’s painting suggests that while time may be cyclical, human agency remains a powerful force. By choosing values that align with our ideals, we can shape the course of history and create a better future.

Art as a Tool for Reflection

Choice of Values exemplifies the power of art to provoke thought and inspire dialogue. Its rich symbolism and philosophical depth make it a work that resonates on multiple levels, appealing to both the intellect and the emotions.

The painting also highlights the role of artists as chroniclers of their time. By addressing universal themes such as time and morality, Vasilenko positions herself as both a historian and a visionary, using her work to illuminate the human condition.

Listed for $14,840 USD, Choice of Values is a testament to Vasilenko’s status as a significant contemporary artist. Its value lies not only in its technical and conceptual brilliance but also in its ability to resonate with audiences across cultures and generations.

Vasilenko’s work has had a lasting impact on the contemporary art scene, particularly in her native Ukraine. Her innovative techniques and profound themes have earned her recognition as a pioneer in volumetric painting, inspiring a new generation of artists.

Tanya Vasilenko’s Choice of Values is a masterpiece that transcends its medium, offering a profound exploration of time, morality, and human agency. Through its striking composition, innovative techniques, and rich symbolism, the painting challenges viewers to reflect on their place within the continuum of history and the values they hold dear.

As part of the “Time” series, Choice of Values stands as a testament to Vasilenko’s ability to merge art and philosophy, creating works that are as intellectually engaging as they are visually stunning. In a world that often prioritizes speed and efficiency, this painting serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of reflection, responsibility, and the choices we make.

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