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Press StatementArtHatch and Distinction Gallery are thrilled to present an exciting Solo Exhibition featuring the artwork of Latvian artist Jana Brike. This exhibit will highlight Brike's most current paintings and drawings. Jana Brike will be traveling all the way from Lativia to attend the show's Opening Reception. She will also be there to meet, greet and answer questions. The Opening Reception with live music will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2013 from 6-10pm. Complimentary Stone Brewery Beer and Wine will be served to guests 21 years of age or older.
Jana Brike was born in Latvia in 1980. Growing up under Soviet occupation had a profound effect on everything from Brike's work ethic to her subject matter and aesthetic sensibilities. A self-described "reclusive and dreamy child," Brike showed burgeoning talent at a very young age. At ten she was enrolled in Latvia's most prestigious arts elementary school where she spent at least 5 hours of each day painting. By 15 years old she was participating in international exhibitions.
Brike's surreal and haunting imagery is informed by everything from Russian Realism and Soviet animation to her grandmother's religious postcards featuring biblical works of the European masters. Her subject matter is culled from folklore, fairytales and children's book illustrations. The subjects of her oil paintings embody a fantastical quality, illustrating what Brike viewed as the "forbidden...imagery of Western pop culture" which took on a "mystical, almost religious tone for Soviet children."
Brike has exhibited and sold her work in the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, Italy, France, Russia, Finland, Belorussia, Switzerland, Australia and several parts of the United States. She currently lives in Riga, Latvia.
The exhibition will run from May 8 - June 1, 2013
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