Art & Culture

Babu Kolappalli, a distinguished artist from Kerala, India, has made a remarkable contribution to the world of textile art through his mastery of passementerie—a specialized craft of creating intricate tassels, trims, and ornamental braids. With a deep-rooted connection to traditional handweaving and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Babu’s work stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of handmade artistry in an increasingly mechanized world.

Early Life and Artistic Journey

Born and raised in Kerala, Babu Kolappalli’s journey into the world of textile art began during his formative years in school. Surrounded by the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Kerala, he found inspiration in the natural beauty that abounded around him. It was during this time that he was introduced to the intricate art of passementerie, which sparked a lifelong passion for handweaving and textile craftsmanship. Babu’s early fascination with the textures, patterns, and colors of natural fibers laid the foundation for his future as an artist dedicated to the slow, intentional creation of tactilely engaging works.

Craftsmanship and Artistic Practice

Babu Kolappalli’s artistic practice is characterized by an elegant fusion of traditional handweaving techniques and contemporary aesthetics. His works are meticulously crafted using a variety of materials, including wool, silk, cotton, jute, and recycled fibers. Each piece reflects a deep respect for the environment, as Babu emphasizes the importance of sustainability in his art. By choosing to work with natural and recycled materials, he not only celebrates the intrinsic beauty of these fibers but also advocates for sustainable practices within the global textile industry.

The process of creating each piece is slow and deliberate, with Babu infusing his work with a sense of intentionality that honors the craftsmanship of generations past. His approach to textile art is one that values the journey as much as the destination; every tassel, trim, and weave is a tribute to the artistry and skill involved in its creation.

“My work is a celebration of slow, intentional craft,” Babu states. “In a fast-paced world, I aim to create pieces that not only reflect the beauty of the natural world but also remind us of the significance of handmade artistry. Every tassel, trim, and weave is a tribute to the process itself, not just the final product. It’s my way of preserving traditional craftsmanship while exploring new intersections of texture and sustainability.”

Influences and Inspirations

Babu’s work is deeply influenced by the natural world and the legacy of master artisans such as Wendy Cushing and Sevinch Deman. These artists, known for their ability to transform traditional craft into contemporary design, have played a pivotal role in shaping Babu’s approach to fiber art. Drawing from their innovative practices, Babu has developed a unique style that blends the richness of traditional techniques with the boldness of modern design.

Notable Works and Exhibitions

Babu Kolappalli’s works are celebrated for their intricate detailing and use of vibrant, natural colors. His ability to transform fibers into visually compelling art has garnered attention both in India and internationally. His pieces, often displayed in exhibitions and galleries, stand out for their rich textures and dynamic compositions that evoke a deep connection to the natural world.

Throughout his career, Babu has collaborated with local artisans and international designers, bringing his expertise in passementerie and textile art to a global stage. These collaborations have allowed him to expand his artistic influence while also fostering a greater appreciation for traditional crafts in contemporary design.

Legacy and Future Endeavors

As Babu Kolappalli continues to expand his presence internationally, his work remains a powerful reminder of the beauty and importance of handmade art in our modern world. His dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship while exploring new creative possibilities ensures that his art will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences around the globe.

Through his work, Babu not only celebrates the artistry of handweaving and passementerie but also champions a sustainable approach to textile art—one that honors the environment and the rich cultural heritage of India. His journey as an artist is a testament to the enduring power of slow, intentional creation, and his contributions to the world of textile art will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Ivonne Sánchez-Barea, a distinguished poet and artist of Spanish and Colombian descent, was born in New York but has spent much of her life immersed in the vibrant cultural landscape of Spain. With a rich heritage and a multifaceted career, she has established herself as a significant figure in both the literary and artistic worlds.

Her academic journey in art began in Madrid, Spain, where she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for creative expression. This foundation paved the way for her to become an influential voice in various international literary, cultural, humanitarian, and environmental organizations. Her leadership and representation in these organizations have been instrumental in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and promoting humanitarian values through art and literature.

Sánchez-Barea’s commitment to cultural enrichment is evident in her participation in numerous international poetry festivals, where she has shared her work and collaborated with poets from around the globe. Until 2022, she was actively involved in organizing cultural and poetic events, demonstrating her dedication to creating platforms for artistic expression and community engagement. Notably, in 2014, she played a pivotal role in the inclusion of Granada City in the Creative Cities Network by UNESCO, a testament to her influence and advocacy for cultural development.

As a prolific writer, Ivonne Sánchez-Barea has published fifty-two books, encompassing essays and poetry that have been compiled and included in national and international anthologies. Her literary works have been featured in a variety of cultural, literary, and scientific magazines, showcasing the breadth and depth of her intellectual and creative endeavors.

Her artistic achievements extend beyond the written word. Sánchez-Barea has held numerous art exhibitions in prestigious international museums and cultural centers. Her work has been displayed in places such as the Modern Art Museum in Guatemala and the Art Event Lille in France. In Spain, her art has graced the Cultural Center Carmen Jimenez, where a retrospective show spanning from 1962 to 2022 featured 107 of her art pieces. This extensive exhibition highlighted the evolution and impact of her artistic journey. Most recently, in 2023, her works were showcased at the Contemporary Art Museum in Jaen, further solidifying her status as a prominent artist.

Ivonne Sánchez-Barea’s dual talents in poetry and visual arts create a powerful synergy that resonates in the cultural and artistic communities. Her work, deeply rooted in her diverse heritage and enriched by her extensive experiences, continues to inspire and influence both contemporaries and future generations. As an artist who bridges multiple disciplines and cultures, she exemplifies the transformative power of creativity and the enduring impact of art in fostering understanding and unity across the world.

Kostas Nousias, born on April 5, 1962, in Agiioi Saranda, is a distinguished musician and poet whose creative journey intricately weaves together the realms of music and literature. A graduate of the Music Academy, Nousias holds diplomas in Bassoon and Saxophone, complemented by advanced studies in music theory. His diverse musical expertise is reflected in his prolific output, which spans numerous genres and forms.

Nousias’s contribution to the musical world is marked by his extensive work in composing songs, hymns, and oratorios. Over the years, he has released eight CDs featuring settings of poems by celebrated poets including C.P. Cavafy, C.P. Palamas, P. Tserkezis, M. Lekkas, S. Leontiadou, Mirella Kalantzi, Dina Milou, and Vera Klareva. His compositions also include settings of works by K. Krystallis, Irene Doura-Kavadia, Yiannis Kontos, and others. The depth and versatility of his music have been widely recognized, with his compositions being broadcast by Greek National radio, ERT, and performed in various venues across Bulgaria, Turkey, and Albania.

In addition to his musical achievements, Nousias has made significant contributions to the literary world. He founded and directed the newspaper “Free VOICE” and was a contributor to “People’s Tribune,” platforms that reflected his engagement with both cultural and social issues. His work has earned him several prestigious awards, including the APOLLO Award in 2019 from the World C.P. Cavafy Competition. He has also been honored with a medal from the UNESCO Club for Arts, Literature, and Sciences of Greece. In 2021, the World Poets Forum recognized him as an Ambassador of Peace, underscoring his impact on promoting harmony through his art.

Nousias is also a prominent figure in the artistic community, serving as the president of the Union of Artists V.I. EKAΒI and as the special secretary of the UNESCO Club of Greece. His dedication to the arts extends to education, where he imparts his knowledge and passion as a teacher at a Music Junior High School-High School in Athens.

In the realm of poetry, Nousias has published several influential collections, including Legendary Symphony (ENVI Edition), Freedom Street (Odos Panos Editions), The Trilogy of My Homeland (ARGJIRO & NIKAS Editions), and Opportunity (translated into Bulgarian, Sofia). His other notable works include Fingerprints (24grammata Editions), Veliachovo in the Embrace of Mountains and Myths (Elikranon Editions), and upcoming collections such as Anthology of Contemporary Northern Epirote Poetry and Don’t Be Afraid of Love! (to be published in Albanian). These works reflect his deep engagement with themes of identity, history, and cultural heritage.

Nousias’s poetic contributions extend beyond Greek borders, with translations of Greek and Albanian poets and his own poems appearing in Bulgarian, Russian, and Albanian publications. His work has been featured in anthologies such as 11 Balkan Poets (Braila, Romania, 2011), the European Writers’ Association edition, and various other significant collections.

Kostas Nousias’s multifaceted career as a musician, poet, and educator continues to inspire and influence the artistic landscape, making him a notable figure in both the Greek and international cultural spheres. His commitment to blending musical and literary forms exemplifies his dedication to enriching the global arts community with his unique vision and talent.

The ancient Greeks expressed their view of the origin and nature of the world through their mythology. It referred to the lives and activities of the deities, heroes, and mythological creatures as well as the origins and significance of the ancient Greeks’ cult and ritual practices.

Morpheus (Greek: Μορφέας) is one such mythological figure. His name means ‘Fashioner’, from the Greek ‘μορφή’, meaning ‘form, shape’. He is the god of sleep and dreams; a god associated with a third of our life. He appears in dreams in human form bearing messages from the gods as well as appearing to the Olympian gods. He is the son of Hypnos (Greek: Ύπνος – God of Sleep) and Pasithea (Greek: – Goddess of relaxation and rest). His grandmother was Nyx (Greek: Νυξ) the fearsome deity of Night. His uncle was Thanatos (Greek: Θάνατος), the god of death. Only the Olympian Gods could visit Morpheus and his family in the land of dreams.

His brothers were Icelus (meaning ‘like’), who made the dreams seem real; Phobetor was responsible for phobic or terrifying dreams, and Phantasus created fantastic and surreal dreams. Morpheus was their leader, and he alone was able to oversee the dreams of Gods, kings, and heroes. This is what set him apart from his brothers. They emerged each night like a flock of bats from Erebos, their cavernous home, the land of eternal darkness in the West, where the sun sets (Greek: Δύση). They would pass through two gates: one made of horn and the other of ivory. Morpheus would pass through the gate made of horn, which represented true or divine dreams. His brothers would pass through the ivory gate, which represented dreams without true meaning. These gates were guarded by two monsters to prevent anyone from entering. Beyond the gates were the River of Forgetfulness and the River of Oblivion.

Morpheus was a winged being. He had two wings on his back, which allowed him to travel noiselessly great distances and at great speed. He is also depicted with a winged ear, symbolizing his listening to, and delivering of dreams. He listens through his normal ear and uses his winged ear to deliver the messages to the receiver, whether it be the Gods or mortals. The Greek gods used him as their messenger to appear in the dreams of the mortals and in this way, to liberate the desires, hopes, and imaginations of the sleeper. However, dreams can also portray false realities, and so betray the receiver to act in an unforeseeable way.

Morpheus is used in such a way in Homer’s Iliad to deliver a message from Zeus to King Agamemnon, king of Mycenae and the leader of the Greek army in the war against Troy. This false dream was sent by Zeus to Agamemnon in the guise of Nestor, a trusted comrade, to persuade him that if he launched a full-scale assault on Troy, he would be successful. Zeus is misleading Agamemnon because he owes a favour to Achille’s mother, the goddess Thetis, who supports Troy and wants the defeat of the Greeks, but also wants to show the importance of Achilles participation in the war. After several days of fighting, the Achaeans are pushed back to their fortifications around their ships. The defeat of the Greek forces wanted to show Agamemnon that he was not the greatest of leaders and that it was Achilles who deserves to be the leader. Achilles had not taken part in this attack due to the disagreement between Agamemnon and Achilles over Briseis, a Trojan captive. Achilles was forced to give her to Agamemnon as compensation for the freeing of Chryseis, the daughter of one of Apollo’s priests, who had been taken as a war prize by Agamemnon.

The reference to Morpheus to express the state of dreaming and as a messenger has been used by many poets from antiquity up to the present times. One such poet is Ovid, the Roman poet (43 BC – 17/18 AD), who lived during the reign of the emperor Augustus. He uses Morpheus in his poetic work Metamorphoses to tell the story of Ceyx and his wife Alcyone, the king and queen of Trachis in Thessaly, who were transformed into birds after provoking the wrath of Zeus. Morpheus appears to Alcyone in a dream as her husband Ceyx to tell her of his death.
Besides works of literature, there are many works of art as well as sculptures showing Morpheus in a state of sleep and as a messenger of the gods. The word ‘Morpheus’ is also used in figurative speech in sayings such as in the arms of Morpheus to express the idea of someone sleeping deeply. We also have the medical term ‘morphine’, which is connected to the poppy seeds that Morpheus had in his cave and is used for those in severe pain. Poppies have also been used to treat insomnia due to their hypnotic properties. In the film world, Morpheus is one of the main characters in the Matrix films.

Next time you dream, think as to whether Morpheus had anything to do with it!!

Despena Dalmaris

 

Il Barocco, uno stile artistico che affonda le sue radici nei secoli passati, continua ad incantare e stupire il mondo con la sua straordinaria bellezza e maestria. Tra tutte le manifestazioni del Barocco, quella siciliana si distingue come una delle più affascinanti ed eclettiche. Questo movimento artistico, nato tra il XVI e il XVII secolo, si è fuso con la cultura e la storia unica dell’isola, dando vita a una meravigliosa espressione artistica, che è tutt’oggi una testimonianza straordinaria del passato.

I monumenti barocchi siciliani sono tra i più affascinanti al mondo. Le città di Palermo, Catania, Ragusa, e Noto sono famose per i loro esempi di architettura barocca. Chiese, palazzi e fontane decorati con dettagli intricati, colonne e sculture sontuose caratterizzano questi luoghi e si possono ammirare passeggiando tra le vie delle città. Una delle chiese più iconiche è la Cattedrale di San Giorgio a Ragusa, un vero e proprio capolavoro con la sua simbolica e imponente facciata a torre.

Il Barocco nelle varie arti

La scultura barocca siciliana è altrettanto spettacolare. Le opere di artisti come Giacomo Serpotta e Antonello Gagini sono celebri per la loro grazia e la loro abilità tecnica. Le sculture barocche decorano chiese e palazzi, portando la loro bellezza nell’ambiente urbano. L’uso di marmo e stucco per creare dettagli intricati è una caratteristica distintiva di questa forma d’arte.

La pittura barocca in Sicilia è celebrata per la sua espressività e drammaticità. I pittori come Mattia Preti e Anton Van Dyck hanno lasciato un’eredità di opere d’arte che raccontano storie complesse e coinvolgenti. Queste opere sono spesso caratterizzate da un uso audace del colore e da un forte contrasto tra luci e ombre, creando un effetto visivo accattivante.

Anche la musica barocca ha prosperato in Sicilia, con compositori come Alessandro Scarlatti che hanno contribuito a questo movimento. Le opere musicali barocche spesso catturano lo spirito dell’epoca, con melodie elaborate e ornamentazioni musicali che affascinano l’ascoltatore.

Il Barocco siciliano è una testimonianza della creatività e della maestria artistica di un’epoca passata. Oggi, i visitatori provenienti da tutto il mondo possono ammirare questa bellezza senza tempo che si è preservata attraverso i secoli. Un viaggio nell’isola siciliana è un’opportunità unica per immergersi nella magia del Barocco e nell’arte che continua a incantare e ispirare chiunque abbia la fortuna di osservarla.
La magia del Barocco siciliano è una fusione di culture e influenze artistiche. La Sicilia, con la sua storia e la sua bellezza senza tempo, ci invita a un viaggio straordinario tra arte, storia e cultura.

La Perdurante Influenza del Barocco Siciliano

La bellezza e l’influenza del Barocco siciliano non si limitano solamente all’architettura e alle opere d’arte, ma si estendono anche alla cultura, alla tradizione e alla vita quotidiana dell’isola. Questo stile ha lasciato un’impronta indelebile, plasmando l’identità culturale della Sicilia in modi straordinari.

Una delle manifestazioni più affascinanti del Barocco siciliano è la sua influenza sulle feste religiose. Ogni anno, molte città e paesi celebrano le proprie feste patronali con processioni religiose che sfoggiano imponenti statue di santi barocchi. Questi eventi coinvolgono comunità intere, portando in vita l’arte e la spiritualità in un’unica esperienza straordinaria. La Settimana Santa in Sicilia, con le sue intense rappresentazioni delle stazioni della Via Crucis, è un esempio notevole di come il Barocco ha plasmato la fede e la cultura locali.

Nonostante il passare dei secoli, il Barocco siciliano è stato accuratamente preservato e restaurato per le generazioni future. L’impegno costante nel mantenere intatte queste opere d’arte è testimone dell’importanza e del rispetto che il popolo siciliano nutre per il suo patrimonio culturale. Numerosi siti barocchi sono stati riconosciuti come Patrimonio dell’Umanità dall’UNESCO, contribuendo a proteggerli e condividerli con il mondo intero.

Il termine “Barocco” viene anche utilizzato come aggettivo per rappresentare concetti di ricchezza, abbondanza per gli occhi, ecletticità e stravaganza.

Si può affermare quindi che la Sicilia in sé è tutta “BAROCCA” un tripudio per gli occhi e per il palato perché esplorando le sue città e i paesi, visitando chiese e palazzi e assaporando la cucina locale i visitatori vengono letteralmente immersi nelle sue tradizioni, una celebrazione della cultura che ha prosperato in questo angolo del mondo.

Un Futuro Radicato nel Passato

Mentre celebriamo la magia del Barocco siciliano, è importante riflettere anche sul suo significato per il futuro. Questo stile artistico ha dimostrato la sua eterna rilevanza e influenza, ma cosa ci può insegnare oggi?

Il Barocco ci ricorda che l’arte e la creatività possono essere forze unificanti e trasformative. L’isola siciliana, attraverso il suo patrimonio artistico, ci insegna che la fusione di culture e influenze può portare a opere di straordinaria bellezza e significato. Questo messaggio continua a essere rilevante in un mondo in cui la diversità culturale è una risorsa da valorizzare e preservare.

Inoltre, il Barocco ci insegna che bisogna continuare a proteggere il nostro patrimonio culturale per le future generazioni. La dedizione dei siciliani nel mantenere intatto questa straordinaria eredità artistica ci ricorda l’importanza di conservare e restaurare opere d’arte e monumenti storici in tutto il mondo.

Infine, la magia del Barocco siciliano ci insegna ad apprezzare la bellezza in ogni dettaglio. L’arte barocca è caratterizzata da una cura meticolosa per i dettagli e un impegno per l’eccellenza. Questo è un insegnamento atemporale: che ogni dettaglio, ogni sfumatura di colore, ogni scultura intricata, è un’opportunità per esprimere la bellezza.

Mentre esploriamo la magia del Barocco siciliano, possiamo anche riflettere sulla sua forza continuativa nell’arte, nella cultura e nella nostra comprensione del passato. La Sicilia, con il suo patrimonio barocco, offre un’esperienza che va oltre il viaggio fisico, diventando una celebrazione dell’arte, della storia e della bellezza umana.

Questo stile artistico eclettico e affascinante continua a incantare, a preservare e a trasformare, offrendoci una finestra nel passato e un promemoria dell’importanza dell’arte, della cultura e della bellezza nella nostra vita. La Sicilia, con il suo Barocco, ci invita a un’esperienza profonda e straordinaria, un viaggio attraverso il tempo che celebra la maestria artistica e l’eterna bellezza.

Duomo di San Giorgio, Modica, Italia. Foto di Filippo Papa.

Feature by
Filippo Papa
Editor, Writers International Edition
Italy

In a world where careers often dictate our life’s path, there are those who break free to follow their heart’s deepest desires. Meet Sathya Shenoy S, a full-fledged realistic and impressionistic artist, whose journey from engineering to teaching eventually led her back to her true passion – art.

Sathya’s artistic odyssey is a testament to the power of resilience and the enduring call of creativity. Her affair with art began as a child but was momentarily eclipsed by the demands of a career in engineering and later, the rigors of teaching. However, destiny had other plans. A brief illness granted her the gift of time – time she eagerly spent with a palette, brushes, and an easel.

This newfound connection with colors breathed fresh life into her world. Sathya found that her eclectic interests in writing, reading, music, and learning languages all converged on the canvas, adding depth and meaning to her art.

For Sathya Shenoy S, the pursuit of art is not a destination but an ongoing voyage filled with delightful discoveries. She dedicates herself to this journey, painting daily even amidst a demanding job. To her, art is more than a hobby; it’s the very air she breathes, a meditative practice that nurtures her soul.

Exploring various mediums, watercolor has become her favorite, allowing her to express her thoughts and emotions in delicate hues and flowing strokes. She believes that each artwork tells a story, and the process of creation is a story in itself.

Sathya is not alone on her artistic expedition. She is an active member of several art groups, including Wet Pallet, Urban Sketchers Kochi, Aquarelle Kerala, In Art World, Meraki, Akansha, and Varnam. These communities provide her with the inspiration, support, and camaraderie essential for an artist’s growth.

Sathya Shenoy S has honed her skills under the tutelage of renowned artists such as Sunil Linus De, Sajeev KS, and Sunija, particularly in the domain of murals. Her dedication and talent have been recognized on both national and international stages through her participation in numerous online and offline exhibitions.

The pinnacle of her achievements in the art world came in 2023 when she was awarded the prestigious Best Artist Award by BMFAC, India. This accolade is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft and her unceasing exploration of the world of art.

Sathya Shenoy S’s journey is an inspiration to all aspiring artists and a reminder that the pursuit of passion knows no bounds. As she continues to breathe life into her canvas, she invites us all to embark on this artistic voyage with her, where every stroke is a story waiting to be told.

When one steps into the world of Ofelia Hutul’s art, they are immediately struck by a dizzying array of proposals and attitudes. On one hand, there are the stern, monumental architectures, reminiscent of the cold ribs of a Gothic cathedral, and on the other, the incredible detail within stillness. In Hutul’s paintings, there exists a perpetual oscillation between the real and the imaginary, the decency of one character contrasting with the unnatural hardness, seemingly unmotivated, of another.

At times, Hutul’s work flirts with the mirage of childhood, manifesting a “phenomenon of transparency” where the child reveals the invisible. It’s as if she doesn’t paint what she sees, but rather what she knows. Many of her paintings contain these transparencies, especially in the case of nudes.

Nature appears “en abîme,” as in heraldic “ebouchon,” certifying that human nature can successfully compete with the natural world. Here, windows become a metaphor for the human body, a wall, a fortress that preserves its history, not merely the circumstances of the moment.

The interplay between the abstract and the concrete is a constant theme. In one work, figures seem to be captured in a choir, a ritual dance, or a procession. Above them, a triumphal arch, concave, and another convex, like a lens. The third is not the arch of a cathedral, but the arch of eyebrows. Beneath it, an eye behind bars. But from the corner of the eye, a bird emerges. Is it a pigeon, heralding the Fiat luxury? Or an eagle, symbolizing freedom? Hutul leaves the choice, the selection, the interpretation to us.

In another painting, a quintet assembles. Judging by the instruments, one might expect them to prepare for chamber music, perhaps a pre-classical concert. However, one of the characters holds a sorcery book, leading us to imagine they are a group of singers.

One of the most enigmatic images is a study in stillness. An empty frame, perhaps a mirror, a bunch of blue flowers in a vase, everything in shades of ultramarine and ochre, softened by hints of brown.

Hutul’s landscapes challenge perspective not by altering relationships or sections, but by appearing stretched or condensed, like in a painting by El Greco, a “condensation nucleus.” In one almost monochromatic blue landscape, the house looms above, with steps suspended like a crossing over a precipice. The house has just one window or door, spanning its entire wall. Three trees, seemingly neutral, but one leans toward the center of interest, participating in the mystery. A metaphysical turmoil courses through the painting, a wind that stirs nothing tangible but is felt through a change in temperature.

Another elemental and metaphysical wind is reminiscent of a famous medieval engraving, with three witches betrayed by the positions of their long hair, which we find in another emblematic painting.

Then there are three figures, one of them unmistakably a woman, the others androgynous or ephebic. They appear to be startled by a collapse, beams falling like scaffolding. But these beams could be crosses, and the characters are unsure if they are saints, evil, or merely unfortunate souls tormented by a malevolent spirit. On the right, three leaves, which could be three eyes, and beneath the characters, a fantastic and unmotivated shadow, as there’s no apparent light source.

One more painting depicts the lake’s heroine, innocent as a Botticelli virgin, but with half her hair braided in locks or possibly lawnmower cords. Or perhaps the cords are snakes, akin to the Gorgon. In her right hand, the female character (fairy, spirit, muse, siren, desired or painful memory – who knows?) holds an object that could be a blue star, a creation of the sea, a mining flower, or a blue flower symbolizing nostalgia and/or solitude.

Hutul’s vibrational paintings also feature a still life, devoid of flowers but filled with empty or inhaled vases in a cosmic, circular trajectory, like planets. A central pot, unadorned clay, then a supporting vase or mortar (we’re uncertain whether brushes rest inside), a teapot, a cup, a crucible. Ochre and Prussian blue, dirty white in the folds, akin to Chagrin’s paintings. It’s a story that hasn’t yet begun. A sea with turbulent waves like a rebellious sky (or vice versa!), an unnatural rainbow that announces nothing, least of all silence. A fantastic slit is provided by a triangular eye, the sole oasis of light. Naturally, it’s a blue orgy.

Urban landscapes are equally enigmatic and ghostly. A gate, perhaps that of a cemetery, invites us into a city where the eye can hardly find anything. Only a cleverly tempered gray rhythm.

And when you least expect it, in a painting called “Summer Colors,” two trees engage in a chromatic dialogue, from lemon yellow to vermilion, from permanent red to chrome green, all set against a blue that has become personal and customized.

Hutul’s openness to childhood is apparent through her posters, book illustrations, and especially her ability to view the world with awe, candor, and curiosity. For her, painting is compensation, intensive therapy, and a sublime refuge.

If Hutul had to choose between being a scientist (she holds a Ph.D. in Aesthetics/Philosophy from “Al. I. Cuza” University, Iaşi, along with postgraduate studies in Pedagogy and Psychology, a graduate of the “G. Enescu” Academy of Fine Arts, Decorative and Design in Iaşi, a professor of visual arts, LT” DC “Iaşi holder, mentor, coordinator of student pedagogical practice at the” George Enescu “University of Arts, Iaşi; training, symposiums, festivals, competitions, project management, author of specialist books, methodological guides, regulations, methodologies, programs, and scientific articles) and a visual artist, she chose art with her heart. Her works have been exhibited in over 75 solo exhibitions in the country, from Iaşi to Galaţi, Vaslui, Cluj-napoca, Bârlad, Caraş-Severin, Câmpulung Moldovenesc, Botoşani, Suceava, Oneşti, Brăila, Ploiesti, Piatra-Neamt, and Bucharest, as well as abroad: Ukraine (Odessa), the Republic of Moldova (Chisinau and Edinet), Belgium (Brussels), the United States (Hagerstown, Maryland), Italy (Portogruaro), France (Saint-Pierre les Elbeuf), and Bulgaria (Balchik).

Hutul has consistently grappled with time and, at times, emerged victorious. Each of her paintings serves as a gateway to a new universe, an unmistakable blend of utmost clarity and creative fantasy, shaped by an extraordinary sensibility.

Her originality knows no bounds. She doesn’t aim to seduce the viewer with easy solutions; rather, she challenges them, making them complicit in vast aesthetic and transcendental challenges. Thus, she possesses a unique

Florin Preda-Dochinoiu, born on December 15, 1970, in the picturesque town of Damian-Sadova in Dolj County, is a name that resonates in the world of visual arts. With a Master’s degree in Visual Arts, specializing in Conservation and Restoration from the University of Craiova, he has carved a remarkable path through the realm of creativity. His current residence is in Motru city, within the Gorj sector.

A Prolific Portfolio of Group Exhibitions

Preda-Dochinoiu’s artistic journey has been punctuated by numerous group and collective exhibitions, both within Romania and abroad. These exhibitions have served as a canvas for him to showcase his talent and creativity:

International and National Exhibitions

• In May 2023, he participated in the “Istverna Art Camp” exhibition held at the Teodor Costescu Palace.
• From April to May 2023, his artwork was featured in the collective art exhibition at Portile de Fier Museum in Dr. Tr. Severin.
• In February 2023, he contributed to the Brăila National Small Plastic Exhibition.
• His artistry was also part of the “Shades of Love” International Exhibition’s third edition held at the Multifunctional Cultural Center of Iași Seniors.
• In January 2023, he showcased his work at the “Ștefan Luchian” Biennale of Painting and Graphics in Botoșani.
• His participation extended internationally, including exhibitions in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, such as “EMINESCIANA” and “EMPATHY ON ONE SIDE AND ON THE OTHER OF PRUTUL.”
• Preda-Dochinoiu’s artistry was also featured in national events like the “Constantin Găvănea” National Graphics Biennale in Tulcea and the “Moldova Salons” in Bacău.

These exhibitions not only underline his diverse talent but also demonstrate his ability to create art that transcends boundaries and cultures.

Personal Exhibitions

In addition to group exhibitions, Florin Preda-Dochinoiu has held several personal exhibitions. These displays offer viewers a deeper insight into his creative mind and artistic journey:

• In August 2022, he held a personal art exhibition titled “DE(SEMN)!” at the “Constantin Brâncuși” Art Galleries in Tg-Jiu.
• In February 2022, his artwork was on display at the “FLIGHTS IN THE RIGHT POSITION!” painting exhibition held at the Palace of Culture Teodor Costescu in Dr. Tr. Severin.
• In January 2022, he presented a personal fine art exhibition titled “SYLLABLES IN READING” at the Nicolae Tonitza Art Gallery in Iasi.
• From December 2021 to January 2022, his paintings adorned the “I DREAM FOR FREE” personal exhibition at the Constantin Brâncusi National Museum in Tg-Jiu.
• In October 2021, he unveiled “SENTIMENTAL DISCRETIONS” at a personal art exhibition hosted by the UMF Iași Museum.
• His personal graphic exhibition “Drawings in Romanian” was a significant event at the Constantin Brâncuși Tg-Jiu National Museum in February 2021.
• “Painting with… memories” marked another personal painting exhibition in August 2020 at the “Florin Isuf” Hall of CJCPCT Gorj.

Creative Camps and More

Florin Preda-Dochinoiu’s artistic journey doesn’t stop at exhibitions. He has also been an active participant in various creative camps and has engaged in other forms of artistic activity, including book illustrations and organizing painting salons. His participation in these endeavors showcases his dedication to the arts and his contribution to the broader artistic community.

Awards and Distinctions

Preda-Dochinoiu’s artistic contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. He has been recognized with numerous awards, distinctions, and scholarships for his outstanding work, including “PRIZE FOR PAINTING,” “PAINTING AWARD,” and “AWARD FOR MIXED TECHNIQUE.” These accolades reflect the high regard in which his art is held within the artistic community.

Illustrating the World with His Art

Beyond his exhibitions and accolades, Florin Preda-Dochinoiu’s artistic journey continues to unfold. His illustrations in various books and albums add another layer to his artistic repertoire. Whether it’s evoking emotions through paintings or illustrating the world with his art, Preda-Dochinoiu’s creative endeavors captivate and inspire art enthusiasts across the globe.

Florin Preda-Dochinoiu is undoubtedly an artist whose journey through the world of art has left an indelible mark, and his future promises even more artistic brilliance.

Kim Moon Tae, often referred to as Meongseog, is a renowned artist hailing from Korea. His journey through the realm of art is one marked by innovation, creativity, and a deep connection to the essence of childlike wonder.

Childlike-Heart Painting

Kim Moon Tae is the inventor and chief proponent of the Childlike-Heart Painting style. This unique approach to art taps into the pure, unadulterated spirit of childhood, resulting in creations that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant.

Global Presence

Meongseog’s art has transcended borders. His work has been exhibited in prestigious venues across the world, including France, Germany, the USA, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, Japan, China, Mongolia, and the Philippines. The Korean Culture Center in Washington, D.C., also had the honor of hosting his captivating pieces.

Published Author

Beyond his canvas, Kim Moon Tae is also a published author. His book, Childlike-Heart Painting Essay <Just…> is a testament to his profound connection with art. Published in 2015, this book delves into the heart and mind of the artist, offering readers a glimpse into the world of Childlike-Heart Painting.

Artistic Achievements

Meongseog’s accolades are a testament to his artistic prowess. He has been part of international art projects and exhibitions, including the Genuine Art Projects International (GAPI) and Art NIGDE International (ANI) in 2021. His online exhibitions, spanning 30 countries, have been captivating audiences since 2019.

Distinguished Roles

Kim Moon Tae’s contributions extend beyond his artistry. He has served as a Visiting Professor at Induk University and has been commissioned as a member of organizing and judging panels for various competitions.

Prolific Portfolio

Over the years, Kim Moon Tae has showcased his art in an impressive 25 individual exhibitions and around 450 group and invited exhibitions.

Kim Moon Tae’s work is a celebration of the childlike wonder that resides within all of us. It invites viewers to reconnect with the innocent joy of youth, reminding us that art has the power to touch our hearts and souls.

Kim Moon Tae’s art is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the universal language of the heart.