All the Same? (2019)
Artist Statement
Written by Ola Rondiak
Inspired by the passion in Taras Shevchenko’s poem It’s All the Same to Me (1845), artist Ola Rondiak invites us to question what is actually not all the same to us. What matters? What is worth fighting for? Dying for?
Typically, when one looks at things or even people, they seem to be the same, stereotypical, and this way we can quickly compartmentalize them in our minds. By distancing ourselves from full awareness we attempt to simplify our lives. The same can be true when we avoid taking a position – a stance. We may say “it’s all the same to me.”
Cognitive simplification and categorization, in evolutionary terms, may have been a useful survival mechanism, but we realize now that it does not come without risks and could have the opposite effect of leading us to our demise. The Motankas in the exhibit remind us of our ancestors’ deep connection to the intangible, the mystical, and the spiritual aspects of human existence. Rather than conforming the artist finds solace in listening to this inner voice.
Ethnicity, nationality, geography, language, culture, is it all the same to us? If not, then to what degree are we willing to fight for them? Where is the line? Where does it infringe on our freedom? What is our responsibility to stand for our truth, our freedom?
Installation Photos
Event Photos
Exhibition Video
Select Exhibition Locations:
Taras Shevchenko Museum (Kaniv, Ukraine)
The Museum of National Decorative Arts (Kaniv, Ukraine)
RA Gallery (Kyiv, Ukraine)
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