This artist and curator panel conversation is part of the "Light in Darkness exhibition" that will be opened on March 8th during Eastplainers #10: Academia.

About the exhibition

“Light in the Darkness” displays the collaborative efforts of two artists: Barro Donker from the Netherlands and Olga Tykhonova from Ukraine. Having worked together for over a year, these artists have created distinctive pieces. Their selection for this exhibit was deliberate, as their work vividly captures the essence of the current state in Ukraine. It simultaneously reflects the harsh realities faced by its people daily while also encapsulating elements of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of its culture.

Barro Donker approaches life in its raw form, depicting its myriad greys interspersed with bursts of colour. Olga Tykhonova introduces the warmth and texture of felted wool to Donker’s pieces, infusing them with life and depth. Together, their creations are notably compelling, showcasing a unique blend of perspectives and mediums.

About the curator

Mariana Dzhulai is a Ukrainian art manager and curator with three decades of experience. With a track record of over 100 curated exhibitions, she has managed multicultural festivals, art fairs, and founded the “Block A” gallery in Kyiv. Dzhulai has a vast Ukrainian artist and creative community network and database. Her international work includes collaborations with UNESCO, embassies, and ministries, as well as exhibitions in Paris, New York, Karlsruhe, and Sicily. Mariana moved to the Netherlands following Russia’s large-scaleinvasion of Ukraine. Here, she has remained actively engaged in the art scene, emphasizing international collaboration and promoting Ukrainian culture in European countries. Also, in 2023, she initiated the creation of the Dutch-Ukrainian cultural centre “Kastanje.”

About Kastanje

“Kastanje,” the Dutch-Ukrainian Cultural Centre, is an essential source for promoting cross-cultural dialogue and an inclusive platform for cultural exchange and exploration. It is a place where Ukrainian expats and refugees can connect with Dutch society and culture, and where Dutch people can learn more about Ukraine and its people. We explore the differences and similarities between our cultures and showcase the best examples of art, music, film, theatre, books, and more. Our mission is to preserve and develop Ukrainian culture during the war and integrate it into Europe's modern cultural map.

Eastsplainers

As the Russian war in Ukraine and imperialist Kremlin rhetoric continues to disturb world media, Eastsplainers offers a counterweight to 'westsplaining' – the habit of looking at developments in Central and Eastern Europe through Western lenses. In this series of public programmes, we listen to intellectuals and artists who fled from the Russian war in Ukraine or who fled or migrated from Łódź, Minsk, and Moscow, among other places, to the Netherlands.