Kateryna Dudukalo
Kateryna Dudukalo
About
Artist
Katerina Dudukalo is a Ukrainian artist who resides in the United States due to the ongoing conflict in her homeland.
During my formative years, two particular passions engrossed my intellect: the realms of artistry and archaeology. Intriguingly, these very pursuits remain the wellspring of my inspiration to this day: the relentless pursuit of ancient verities and the realm of visual arts. My mother, employed as a design engineer, would routinely bestow upon me a copious supply of paper and pencils from her workplace. My father, a professional technologist, imprinted upon me a profound appreciation for the art of handcrafting and the dexterity required to produce artistry through manual labor. These early influences would ultimately prove instrumental in honing my proficiency in the creation of canvases.
More than 15 years ago, a dream planted the seed of destiny within me, beckoning me to become an artist, despite my formal education in the field of construction economics. That fateful morning, I awoke and, driven by this newfound calling, transformed a bedsheet into my first canvas, fastening it to the door (the only surface in my house that resembled one). With determination, I hurried to the art supply store, procuring just three colors of paint, as that was all my limited budget allowed. From that moment on, my life has been a journey marked by extraordinary events and meaningful coincidences, affirming that I had indeed found my true path.
Prior to the conflict in Ukraine, I embarked on extensive travels, venturing to various corners of the globe, including destinations as far-flung as Palestine and Mauritius. The stark contrasts in culture and society that I encountered during my travels have significantly enriched my perspective and deepened my understanding of the human condition and the quest for happiness.
My artistic creations serve as a reflection of the modern human experience, intricately woven with the themes of artificial intelligence advancement, the repercussions of globalization, intercultural misunderstandings, and the turmoil caused by religious conflicts. Through my art, I embark on a continuous search for peace and harmony. I aim to rejuvenate the long-forgotten concept of morality, a word that often elicits two distinct reactions from people: amusement and aversion. My aspiration is to reshape the perceptions of future generations, emphasizing that the core tenet of loving one's neighbor is the wellspring of life and the ultimate pathway to happiness and harmony.
Technique
My passion lies in portraying individuals, and I purposefully steer clear of photographic realism. I derive great satisfaction from utilizing bold, textured strokes created with a palette knife and brush to emphasize the unique features and character of my subjects. My inspiration often stems from observing people during their daily routines, particularly within the bustling environment of the subway. Japanese art has played a significant role in influencing and refining my painting technique."