"Memories" are source of inspiration

Following is the artist's statement on his sources of inspiration.

I get the inspiration for my box designs partly from my Ukrainian heritage. But more than that, since a child I was always interested in the Far East, its mysteries and its culture. Or maybe it was all the National Geographic magazines we received in the mail that stimulated me at an early age, awakening images buried deep in my subconscious, genetic memories collected by my early Ukrainian family.

Regardless, these "memories" bubble up into my creative process today, influencing my work and its style.

Many people who see my boxes for the first time comment that they seem like little temples from far away lands. Their style I call "Asian-Deco," a blend of the old and the not too new, one that recalls the early 20th century discovery of what were still mysterious and distant lands.

The soft curves and crisp edges of my boxes invite touch. The colors evoke serenity and contemplation. Although they are multiple section boxes, they function more as meditative sculptures, offering a little peace in a troubled world or even a brief journey through one's own genetic memories.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, November 10, 2002, No. 45, Vol. LXX

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