Two Rivers Gallery is set to unveil two exhibitions on Oct. 25, featuring the work of contemporary Ukrainian artist Mykola Zhuravel and a curated selection from its permanent collection that explores the theme of gaze in portraiture.
Zhuravel, a prominent figure in Ukrainian contemporary art now based in Toronto, is known for his innovative use of diverse mediums that blur the lines between painting, sculpture, performance, and installation. His upcoming exhibition, A Walk in Sunflowers, runs until Jan. 12, and showcases his vibrant works that intertwine nature and humanity.
Zhuravel's pieces reflect a search for harmony between Earth and mankind, challenging the barriers that divide them, states a release from the gallery. His approach combines surrealistic elements with nostalgia, inviting viewers into a visionary world that transcends simple representation.
The second exhibition, A Faded Gaze, will also be on display until Jan. 12, 2025. It features artworks from the gallery's permanent collection that delve into the emotional power of the gaze in portraiture. The selected pieces illustrate how an artist's portrayal of eyes can profoundly influence audience perception, creating narratives rich with untold stories, reads a description provided by the gallery.
This exhibition highlights the distortion, fading, and blurring of faces, which cacn be considered an exploration of identity.
An opening reception will be held on Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m., offering an opportunity to engage with Zhuravel during an artist talk, enjoy light refreshments and hear Ukrainian folk music. The event is free and open to the public.
Meanwhile, a closing reception for the gallery's current exhibition, Marking Time: Art in the Age of Mass Incarceration, will be held Thursday, Oct. 3.
It happens at UNBC’s Robert Frederick Gallery from 5-8 p.m, with a tour at 5:30 p.m., followed by a panel discussion at 6 p.m.
Situated on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh, Two Rivers Gallery at 725 Canada Games Way showcases contemporary Canadian art while fostering community engagement through educational programs. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon-5 p.m. It’s closed Mondays. Admission is by donation.
For more information, visit tworiversgallery.ca or contact the gallery at [email protected] or 250-614-7800.
Follow Two Rivers Gallery on social media: Facebook @tworiversgallery, Instagram @tworiversgallery and YouTube at TwoRiversGalleryBC.
