Perception and Identity in Evgeniya Grodneva's Visual Dialogue at the Small Gallery, Grampian Hospitals Art Trust

The Small Gallery (Grampian Hospitals Art Trust), located within Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, recently showcased an evocative exhibition titled 'The Dialectics of Identity and Perception' by Evgeniya Grodneva. Curated by Artroom Coordinator Jo Hastie, this exhibition, which ran from 18th August to 6th September 2022, offered an introspective exploration of how identity is formed, perceived, and continually renegotiated through the lens of intricate patterns and abstract forms.

Evgeniya Grodneva is renowned for her profound exploration of identity through intricate patterns and abstract forms. Her work is deeply influenced by philosophical inquiries into the nature of selfhood and the unseen forces that shape our perception of reality. In 'The Dialectics of Identity and Perception,' Grodneva presents a series of works that are not only visually captivating but also rich in conceptual depth, encouraging viewers to engage in a dialogue with the art and reflect on their own perceptions and identities.

Grodneva’s technique is marked by her meticulous use of geometric patterns, often employing optical illusions that challenge the viewer's sense of space and form. Her work is characterised by a restrained yet impactful colour palette—predominantly black, white, red, and blue—that she uses to emphasise the dualities and tensions inherent in human existence. The patterns in her compositions are more than mere decoration; they are integral to the narrative of each piece, symbolising the interconnectedness of the individual with broader cosmic and societal structures.

One of the standout pieces from the exhibition, which I will refer to as 'Interwoven Self,' epitomises Grodneva’s technique and thematic focus. In this piece, a red silhouette of a human form is intricately woven into a network of black and white lines, creating a striking visual interplay between the figure and the surrounding patterns. The figure appears both contained within and emerging from the complex lattice of lines, symbolising the tension between individual identity and the external forces that shape it. The optical illusion created by the intertwining lines not only captivates the viewer's gaze but also invites deeper contemplation of how our identities are constructed and perceived.

Another compelling work displayed in the exhibition is titled 'Blue Echoes.' In this piece, Grodneva uses a series of concentric circles to create a mesmerising pattern that envelops a human form outlined in blue. The circles, reminiscent of ripples in water, evoke the idea of echoes—subtle, far-reaching impacts that radiate from a central point, much like the way identity and perception influence and are influenced by external factors. The use of blue in the figure against the stark black and white background adds a layer of serenity and introspection, suggesting a contemplative state where the self is in dialogue with the surrounding world.

Grodneva’s works, particularly those featured in 'The Dialectics of Identity and Perception,' challenge viewers to reflect on the fluidity of identity and the ways in which it is continuously shaped and reshaped by external influences. Her art creates a space where perception itself becomes a subject of inquiry—where the boundaries between self and environment, figure and ground, are constantly in flux.

The patterns in Grodneva’s work are meticulously constructed, each line and shape carefully considered to create a harmonious yet dynamic composition. These patterns serve as metaphors for the complex web of influences—social, cultural, psychological—that define and constrain our sense of self. The use of optical illusion in her work further enhances this theme, challenging the viewer’s perception and inviting deeper engagement with the artwork. As one navigates the visual complexity of the piece, it becomes clear that Grodneva is not just depicting a static identity but is instead portraying identity as a fluid, ever-evolving process, shaped by and shaping the patterns that surround it.

The setting of this exhibition within GHAT is particularly significant. GHAT’s commitment to enhancing the healthcare environment through art is rooted in the understanding that art can play a crucial role in promoting well-being. By situating Grodneva’s thought-provoking works within the hospital environment, GHAT underscores the importance of art as a tool for reflection and healing, offering patients, visitors, and staff alike a space to engage with complex ideas about identity and perception.

As a charity supported by NHS Grampian and various donors, GHAT’s mission is to make art accessible to all, even within the challenging context of public healthcare settings. The success of this exhibition, measured by the engagement and feedback from those who experienced it, is a testament to the ongoing relevance of GHAT’s work and its impact on the community.

Evgeniya Grodneva’s 'The Dialectics of Identity and Perception' at The Small Gallery was more than just an art exhibition—it was an intellectual and emotional journey that challenged viewers to reconsider their understanding of identity and the forces that shape it. Through her innovative use of pattern, colour, and form, Grodneva created a series of works that are as visually striking as they are philosophically rich, offering a transformative experience that resonates deeply with GHAT’s mission to integrate art into the fabric of healthcare.

This exhibition is a shining example of how art can enrich public spaces, offering moments of reflection, comfort, and inspiration even in the most unexpected places. Through the work of artists like Grodneva, GHAT continues to lead the way in demonstrating the vital role that art plays in enhancing well-being and fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Tom Denman, residing in London, is a distinguished freelance art critic whose perceptive articles have featured in eminent publications such as Art Journal, ART PAPERS, ArtReview, Art Monthly, Burlington Contemporary, e-flux, Flash Art, Ocula, and Studio International. He earned his PhD in Italian Studies from the University of Reading, focusing his research on Caravaggio and the noble-intellectual milieu of seventeenth-century Naples. Presently, his critiques primarily explore the subtleties and emerging trends within contemporary art.