Fish 2007

Oleh Denysenko, born in 1960, created this artwork titled 'Fish' exploring themes deeply rooted in cultural memory. Denysenko was born and raised in Ukraine when it was under Soviet rule, a period marked by political repression and cultural assimilation. The 'Fish' acts as a vessel carrying the weight of Ukrainian history, spirituality, and identity. The fish is a symbol used in many cultures, including as an early symbol for Christianity, and its prominence here suggests layers of meaning related to faith, sustenance, and transformation. The mixed media work may act as a map of sorts, or perhaps it is a metaphor for the depths of the unconscious. This piece may invite us to consider the complex interplay between personal and collective memory, reflecting the ways in which history shapes our understanding of self and place. It also encourages us to contemplate the resilience of cultural identity, especially in the face of external pressures.