The poster series delves deep into Ukrainian identity, offering a unique perspective on the national flag and its powerful symbolism.

Date:

On now — November 20, 2024

Time:

Monday: 9 a.m. — 7 p.m.

Tuesday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

Wednesday: 9 a.m. — 7 p.m.

Thursday: 9 a.m. — 7 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

Location:

Art Exhibit Room

St. Volodymyr Institute (SVI)

620 Spadina Avenue

Toronto, ON

M5S 2H4

The Blue-Yellow Series of posters explores Ukrainian identity through individual interpretations of state symbols, particularly the flag. Since the beginning of the war, many Ukrainians worldwide have subconsciously started noticing any possible combinations of blue and yellow in everyday life. The colours are perceived as a sign of support, togetherness, and hope. They are gaining new meanings and giving people strength to resist. The poster series delves into the search for a new Ukraine and the Ukrainians' place in the modern world. "When no colours are left, the Ukrainian flag is still waving" is the project's central message. The posters represent the flag colours in various ways: as wavelengths of blue and yellow light, as chemical formulas of the most common pigments like Prussian blue and Cadmium yellow, as wildflowers like periwinkle and dandelion, as gestures of sign language, as icons for colourblind people, and as formulas for process printing or digital devices.

About the Author:

Yurko Gutsulyak (Ukrainian-Canadian, 1979) examines the frontiers between graphic design and contemporary art. Though his artworks are often reproduced in multiple editions, they aim to deliver personalized messages to the viewer. Symbols and symbolism fascinate him and fuel his creativity. He enjoys engineering meanings and playing with interpretations to provoke reflection and even debate.

With over twenty years of experience in the field, Yurko Gutsulyak founded Gutsulyak.Studio in 2005, a creative atelier specializing in visual identity, print, and packaging design. He has achieved remarkable success throughout his career, receiving numerous international awards (including Red Dot, European Design Awards, Epica Awards, Pentawards, Dieline Awards, Communication Arts, and Graphis), delivering lectures, writing, and shaping the design community in Canada, Ukraine, and beyond.

No RSVP required.