The Artistic Life of Aka Pereyma
February 17–May 12, 2024
Aka Pereyma’s art, unconventional and visionary, demonstrates a highly personal means of expression. Weaving folk-art traditions with modern artistic styles, Pereyma produced art that expressed her strong ties to her Ukrainian heritage. “I think it is my duty to introduce to the world my Ukrainian culture,” she stated. This exhibition brings together works from throughout her career, from the early 1960s into the 21st century. Not tied to a single medium, Pereyma made paintings, drawings, wood and metal sculptures, needlework, woodblock prints, ceramics and exquisitely intricate designs on pysanky eggs. Recurring themes include Ukrainian folk songs, depictions of birds to represent her love of nature, Adam and Eve (along with leaves and eggs) to symbolize men and women. The works tell stories, often through surreal, densely filled ornamentation. “More is more,” was a favorite saying. A celebration of a local artistic legend, this exhibition will highlight Pereyma’s love of color and bold design.
“… consciously or unconsciously, I incorporate that Ukrainian spirit into all my works, and continue to write with the signs of the ages, my heritage.” – Aka Pereyma
Aka Pereyma (American, born in Poland, 1927–2013) Song of Jacob (from the series Ukrainian Folk Songs), about 2000, oil on canvas, private collection
In the exhibition gallery, guests are invited to view video footage of the artist, explaining the creative process, inspirations behind her work and more! You can view the footage here:
EXHIBITION SPONSORS
Benefactor
Linda Black-Kurek Family Foundation
Patty & Jerry Tatar
Director
Carolyn Brethen
Barbara Pereyma-Farrara
Linda Lombard & Paul Marshall
Robert & Christina O’Neal
A grant from the General Fund of The Troy Foundation
Supporting
The Grimes Family
The Daniel Kerber Family
Promoting
Wanda & William Lukens
Lydia and Duncan Mason
Additional Support
The Fulker & Armstrong Families
Julia D. Hobart
Rachel, Helen, Katharine & Surrie Hobart & Denler Hobart Gardens, LLC
The Family of Glyn & Gladys Williams
Winans Coffee & Chocolate
Friends of Aka
Erwin Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Howard & Harriet Cary Family
Dr. Jason & Tiffini Johnston
Koverman Staley Dickerson Insurance
Oksana Krushelnycky
Irma Osadsa & Thom Payne
Laurie & Tom Pew
Julia and Donald Routson
Ongoing Sponsors
Ohio Arts Council
Montgomery County
Culture Works