Russian Artist’s Solo Exhibition Makes History with Record Attendance at Local Gallery

Valery Yershov is a Russian-born, NYC native that has shot into global recognition in recent times, with his paintings attracting the attention of art lovers from across the globe. On opening night for his new solo exhibition held at Barsky Gallery (49 Harrison Street, Hoboken), Valery made history as the event drew more than 200 guests from all over the tri-state area and as far away as California. Collectors, museum curators, and art lovers alike, all flocked to the local gallery to view Yershov’s new body of work, Desolated. With Russia never far from the news, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that many are intrigued with how Russian artists express themselves through their work. This fascination manifested fully at the January 13^th opening night.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the turnout,” commented Albert Barsky from Barsky Gallery. “This is truly a remarkable exhibition and to see it win so much support is wonderful.”

Yershov is known for creating a balance between dream and reality, theatricality, and absurdity while paying attention to fine details. He is also known for playing on the ambivalence of meaning, which has encouraged discussion of his work and helped increase his popularity in the last ten years. This latest body of work consists of 11 original paintings, and limited edition of 30 museum-quality prints of each piece available directly through the gallery.

Accolades have already started pouring in from guests at the opening reception. “In his ironic realism, Yershov utilizes simplified forms and exaggerated figures reinforcing the interplay between particular and generalized components. Yershov’s direct way of rendering his subjects with plastic brushstrokes is a sophisticated way of describing their psychological moods. Sometimes subjects and environments carrying biographic baggage can bring back nostalgic memories of Yershov’s childhood, along with the remnants of the Russian empire and cultural heritage. Some paintings create a sense of uneasiness, elements of tragedy, alluding to cultural and historical memory during the tumultuous times of the Soviet era,” said Natalia Kolodzei, Kolodzei Art Foundation; Honorary member of the Russian Academy of Arts.

The event also provided an opportunity for Hoboken locals to see a positive side of Russia, as they mingled with Russian art elite, media and art enthusiasts. “Albert gave me the greatest gift on my birthday by giving me an art gallery in Hoboken,” said Esther Forman, a Hoboken born art lover, referring to owner of Barsky Gallery. “It is so wonderful meeting everyone here. I love the art, I love the people.”

The exhibition is scheduled to remain open for viewing through February, 2018, offering four weeks of undiluted and unique artworks. Barsky Gallery expects the rest of the exhibit’s run to continue to attract art lovers from across the nation to see “Desolated” first hand.

“Passion, skill and momentum are certainly all on Yershov’s side.” Barsky said. “The much anticipated new body of work is reported to be among the most accomplished and thought-provoking of Yershov’s career to date.”

More information about the exhibition can be found on gallery’s website.