Hamiltonian Gallery is pleased to announce the In Between, a solo exhibition by Hamiltonian Fellow Elena Volkova . In her newest series, Volkova explores drawing as a process of perception by pushing the conceptual boundaries of the medium off of the paper, and into the realm of space itself.
Elena Volkova presents a series of graphite drawings in which the subject matter is light. Seemingly fundamental, her drawings of folded paper and shadows on walls using a subtle value range are indicative of a systematic process-oriented approach to drawing, yet the result speaks more about the space around the actual drawn object. By bringing attention to the shadows and highlights that constitute an image, Volkova makes the viewer an active participant of the installation, where the act of looking, perceiving and comparing is emphasized.
By denoting dynamic two-dimensional surfaces defined by light and shadow, Volkova has investigated the spatial limits of drawing. The geometric forms in her drawings present a flat plane shifting between representation and reality.
Volkova explains, “In this body of work, I would like to bring the viewer’s attention to the discrepancy between art and reality. Employing the ideas of trompe-l’oil, I am interested in the threshold between the real and the false, and the moment at which the two become interchangeable.”
Elena Volkova’s drawings implement the ordinary and commonplace, which instantly capacitates the viewer to move beyond the familiar neutrality of a piece of paper and delve into its potential.
This exhibition will be on view from November 5th – December 3rd, 2011, with an opening reception on Saturday, November 5th, from 7-9 pm. Prior to the opening, there will be an artist talk with Elena Volkova from 6:00 – 7:00 pm on Saturday, November 5, 2011.
HAMILTONIAN GALLERY is a new dynamic space in the heart of the growing Washington DC contemporary art district. The gallery focuses on innovative works by emerging and mid-career artists. In conjunction with Hamiltonian Artists, the gallery will promote new artists, aiding in their further development. Through our dynamic exhibitions and gallery programs, we seek to broaden the cultural dialogue within our modern community.