Psychedelic Attack of the Blue Rabbits 1990

Curator: At first glance, they feel strangely… ethereal. A group of figures bathed in an otherworldly light. It’s as if a dreamscape is trying to materialize before us, soft-edged and full of a hushed energy. Editor: Well put. What you’re describing captures part of what Oleg Holosiy seems to be driving at. What we are seeing is his painting called "Psychedelic Attack of the Blue Rabbits." Holosiy, painted this piece in 1990, and he worked with acrylic paint to develop his perspective on canvas. Curator: “Attack” seems a strong word. But you are right there is a strange tension beneath this quiet color palette. In many respects, the work nods to narrative art in terms of a group in transition, maybe fleeing together, moving urgently in a single direction? But, who are these creatures and where might they be going? It feels almost allegorical, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: Totally, something primal in the landscape is bubbling just beneath the surface! My intuition tells me it has to do with a dream state, and also an altered perception. The way those soft, muted blues are deployed reminds me of a foggy morning where shapes begin to emerge as the sun burns the mist. But still these blue rabbit headed forms haunt me. What commentary are we to assume here? Are they warning or something else? Curator: Well, the history of art is full of strange unions of figures—and let’s not ignore the hints of Fauvism and Abstract Expressionism lurking behind the arrangement. Here Holosiy has clearly adopted something of a pastiche with this dream sequence. Considering Ukraine's transition during this time it could be suggested that Holosiy is inviting a sense of upheaval with the group. The painting can almost be interpreted as both chaotic and serene, all while presenting a critical view of Ukraine’s evolving culture and new social order in 1990. Editor: In that context it is clear to me now. It just took a historical interpretation for me to be at ease! Curator: Glad I could help. It's a potent blend of anxieties and the artist's perspective isn't it? Editor: Absolutely, I find it fascinating how that interplay is rendered with this kind of subtle brushstroke!