ARTIST PROFILE

Dana Kotler

  • Ukraine (b. 1989 in Odessa)
  • Currently in New York, United States.

ARTIST STATEMENT

I juxtapose a variety of objects and surfaces in a nearly collage-like manner, resulting in anthropomorphic constructions which I consider as characters, Golems of sort. These creatures are reflective of my various sentiments, issues and experiences.

The paintings are constructed fragmentally, with little foresight as to their final spatial configuration. Certain objects such as walls, fabrics, outlets, and plastic appear repeatedly, and despite having a utilitarian nature they are symbolically integral. As the objects are placed in specific locations within the painting they are forced to coexist, form relationships, and gain meaning. The experience of observing and studying an object, and simply spending time with it provides a platform upon which to contemplate its significance on an interpersonal level.

By setting up multiple still lifes and painting different chapters sequentially, I let the concept solidify gradually. This process provides space for the ideas to change and transform as I get to know the painting. Every formal or conceptual decision, further intertwines the existing forms, and allows me to better grasp my thoughts and positions. Rather than an attempt to arrive at a truth, the act of painting is an unfoldment of my commitments and delusions, that I bestow unto the creatures I devise, in a space where both the formal qualities of the paint and composition, and the symbolism of the various objects, fuse into an edifice of narratives.


BIOGRAPHY

Dana Kotler was born in Odessa, Ukraine, and grew up in Jerusalem, Israel. After relocating to New York 10 years ago, she received her Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Binghamton, and completed her MFA at the New York Academy of Art. During her studies she was selected for an artist residency in Shanghai, China, and recently was awarded an Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation grant. Currently, she is teaching summer courses in painting and drawing in Dingle, Ireland.