Chulyk

tThis work originated with a compulsion to join pieces together and question their significance, in the same way early man drew circles in the dirt and placed sticks and pebbles in patterns within them. Tiny bones evolved into metal rods, pebbles into mighty boxes, and life kept on revealing fascinating objects to the artist in strange places, leading him to bigger questions and more intricate responses.

There are various series: tubes, gears, hooks, rods and stones create ritual totem creatures; household implements and medical equipment might explore our fragility, or might come alive as murder weapons at night; wire towers which whisper of torture might double "by day" as furniture; and artifacts of every vintage abound.

Some pieces remind the artist of his Ukrainian heritage while holding his feet to the fire of contemporary "junk" culture; some simply shrug and amuse... and all of them are sensuously attractive, inviting the viewer to touch and enjoy while they evince conflicting emotional reactions. They range from 1 foot to 15 feet, and some bear hints of shimmering color, while others display the simple purity of the original materials.

Above Left: FAMILY DRAMA, 15"h x 24"l x 4"h, $ 635