DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is showcasing the artwork of Russian artist Ilya Stolyar in the month of February.
The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 4 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in conjunction with the monthly Fort Myers Art Walk. The exhibition will be on display through Feb. 27.
Stolyar was born in a small town by the Baltic Sea called Kaliningrad which, prior to World War II belonged to Germany and was known as Koenigsberg.
The artist moved to the United States in 2001, spending the last seven in Southwest Florida. “I’ve changed a lot of addresses in 21 years of living in United States. I have done different types of work, while studying a variety of different subjects,” comments Stolyar, who spent 15 years living in New Jersey before moving to the sunshine state. “I also have met a lot of different people. All of those experiences shaped me into the person I am right now.”
The definition of art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. As well as the various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance. Stolyar’s definition of art is a bit different. “I create for the sake of living, for the sake of self-exploitation and an internal conversation with God,” says the artist.
Over the last 20 years, Stolyar has explored a lot of mediums and techniques, some self-taught. His earlier pieces started with dark colors, and self-conscious subjects affected by depression. Overtime, the artist has learned more about himself, as well as cultures, beliefs and traditions of others. “My work progressed into bright and vibrant colors, with open minded concepts, and filled with love.” – concludes the artist.
DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts is located at 1815 Fowler St. in the Butterfly Estates complex in Fort Myers. The gallery’s hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information about the venue and how to become a member can be found online at www.daascoop.com or by calling 239-590-8645.
