Exploring National Identity Through Design: In Conversations with Yurko Gutsulyak
St. Volodymyr Institute's Art Gallery was filled with engaging conversations on October 10th as the community gathered for the opening reception of the Blue-Yellow Series, a thought-provoking exhibition by designer Yurko Gutsulyak.
The reception brought together art enthusiasts, designers, and community members to explore how design can powerfully express national identity during times of profound change.
Learn more about Yurko Gutsulyak's creative process and vision in a full interview with SVI staff member Violetta Petrova, now featured on the Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) blog.
Artist and His Vision
“Many now live in a metaphorical black-and-white world. Yet, even in this grayness, the Ukrainian identity persists, symbolized by the continued presence of the blue and yellow flag.”
Yurko Gutsulyak RGD, whose studio has garnered over 100 international awards including the prestigious Red Dot and European Design Awards, ventures beyond commercial work in this exhibition. The Blue-Yellow Series presents six silkscreen-printed posters that ingeniously deconstruct the Ukrainian flag's colors through technical and cultural lenses. What began as annual social media posts on Ukraine's Independence Day has evolved into a sophisticated exploration of national identity through design.
Experience the Exhibition
Visitors can enhance their experience through a specially curated Blue-Yellow Playlist featuring twelve songs that explore the emotions and associations of these significant colors.
The Blue-Yellow Series remains on display at the Art Gallery till November 20th.
Visit us at 620 Spadina Avenue to experience this unique intersection of design, identity, and cultural dialogue.
