Athens Reporter

The Georgia Museum of Art at the University of Georgia is showcasing an exhibition titled "The Awe of Ordinary Labors: 20th-Century Paintings from Ukraine" from January 18 to June 1. This exhibition aims to preserve and highlight Ukrainian art amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine since 2022. The display includes forty-four paintings from the museum's collection, dating between 1930 and 1980, which reflect the socialist realism style.

Socialist realism, known for its optimistic portrayal of Soviet life and Communist ideologies, often served as political propaganda. However, many artists managed to infuse personal content and subversive messages into their work. Dr. Asen Kirin, curator of this exhibition and Parker Curator of Russian Art at the museum, stated that these artworks offer insights into Central and Eastern European visual culture during the 20th century.

Kirin remarked, “While not condemned or rejected by the official censors, [they] still conveyed highly personal content as well as alternative and at times subversive statements.” He further explained that socialist realism evolved over time with creative individuals leaving unique imprints on the era's visual culture.

Describing the exhibition as a gesture of solidarity with Ukrainians, Kirin said, “In our modest way, we are striving to show wider audiences the richness of Ukrainian visual culture.”

Several related events will accompany the exhibition:

- A talk by Kirin on January 23.

- A Teen Studio program led by Kristen Ashley MacCarthy on January 23.

- An After Hours reception on February 21.

- The museum’s winter open house on February 22.

- A Family Day on March 15.

- A three-part studio workshop with MacCarthy in March.

- A two-day symposium on Ukrainian art in March.

- A talk by Joseph Kellner on April 2.

Family Day is sponsored by Heyward Allen Cadillac-GMC-Toyota. All programs are free unless otherwise noted.