Taymour Grahne Projects is pleased to present Travel a solo exhibition by NY-based artist Polina Barskaya, opening on February 25 between 5-7pm at the Notting Hill space (1 Lonsdale Road) as part of a joint opening across our 3 spaces.

Polina Barskaya explores nuanced paintings that are refined from private studies of those closest to her: the artist's husband, baby, and family. These affectionate scenes are set against domestic interiors and public environments.

Barskaya offers snapshots into the sombre, intimate moments of a day; an unmade slovenly bed, silent intuitive communication between confidants, or touching familiar bodies. Intimacy is presented with poignant informality where protagonists migrate from inside to outside habitats. Furthermore, the viewer is brought along, connecting to the relatable endeavours of a family day.

The works start life as photographs and through the process of painting, imagery evolves with new visual possibilities considered. The self-portraiture element of these paintings is confessional and offers unvarnished moments of authenticity. A subdued colour palette abundant with neutral tones further plays into notions of realism, whether it be a mother’s candour or exacting depictions of long-term partnership. Acrylic paint allows observations to be quickly illustrated as the medium dries rapidly. This requires the artist to work with a sense of conviction rather than focusing on overly produced imagery.

The tracking of parenthood in particular provides a narrative account of Barskaya's growing child and their effect on those around them. These depictions connected to a specific time and place offer a permanent, lasting record realised in tangible form. By painting on a smaller scale, Barskaya facilitates a direct emotional connection, allowing her own autobiographical experiences to intertwine with those of the viewers.

With special thanks to The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation

Polina Barskaya (b. 1984, Cherkassy,Ukraine) received a MFA from Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, NY and a BA from Hunter College, NY. Barskaya received an Artist Fellowship in Painting from New York Foundation of the Arts (NYFA) in 2021, and an Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant in 2022 and 2020. Recent exhibitions include Taymour Grahne Projects, London; Althuis Hofland Fine Arts, Amsterdam; DC Moore Gallery, NY; Marianne Boesky Gallery, NY; and Monya Rowe Gallery, NY. Her work has been featured in Artforum, New York Magazine, Artnet and Hyperallergic, among others. The artist lives and works in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, NY and Citta Della Pieve, Italy. Barskaya is represented by Monya Rowe Gallery, NY.