By Roy Lie Atjam
An exclusive exhibition of paintings displaying the works of Belarusian artist Aliaksandra Puhachova, held at the World Trade Center (WTC) in The Hague. Unfortunately, contemporary Belarusian art has yet to receive the recognition it deserves in The Netherlands, a sentiment shared by many in attendance.
In her artist statement, Aliaksandra Puhachova asserts the goals of her audience, which are: “to have the ability to read the hidden signs in my works without the words, to hear the sounds without the noise, to see unnamed feelings.”
Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus in The Netherlands H.E. Mr. Andrei Yeudachenka, delivered the inaugural speech. A fragment of his speech: “It’s my great pleasure to welcome you to the exhibition of the Belarusian artist Aliaksandra Puhachova “Just Alex” which we open today, 26 October 2021 at this beautiful Art Gallery of The Hague World Trade Centre.
After a long and boring period of self-isolation, wearing masks and limited activities our life is slowly and gradually coming to normality. So, while reflecting how we, Belarusians, could contribute to this process, we decided to opt for art.
Because we believe that art is a genuine gift to the humankind. It gives meaning to our lives and helps us to understand the universe. Art allows us to be open to new ideas and experiences, bridges the nations, promotes understanding, humanism and harmony around the globe, which is especially important in today’s turbulent and often divided world.
The Netherlands – one of the world’s centers of art and a country proud of its own myriad internationally renowned artists – the Belarusian art is still little known to the broader Dutch public. Yet I am sure that you are familiar with some of them, like our probably most famous native, Marc Chagal. A talented artist, a brilliant representative of the 20th century avant-garde, he conquered the world with his unique style and special outlook on life. Among others, original works by M.Chagall decorate the Paris Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
The younger generation of my compatriots, and Aliaksandra Puhachova is probably one of the most bright and talented of them, continue to promote the Belarusian culture and art, not only honoring our own traditions but also taking the best from the Dutch and the European schools. Provided Aliaksandra is here today with us, I am sure she will be most pleased to answer your questions about her interests in art and in life. I want to highlight just two things.
Firstly, Aliaksandra started her artistic life very early; at the age of 4 she became a student of the Rishard May Art Studio. After studies at the Art College and The Belarusian Academy of Arts in Minsk, with all her dreams and worries she came to the Netherlands to conquer the world. In 2019 Aliaksandra graduated The Hague Royal Academy of Art, and shortly after that her works have been featured in a number of exhibitions in the Netherlands and abroad.
Secondly, Aliaksandra, who is currently living and creating in the Netherlands, did not sacrificed all her hart on the sacred altar of art. She has a loving husband Hakan (he is also present today), and almost the same time one year ago a new source of inspiration – their charming daughter Liva Dua – was born. Indeed, if God is generous to someone, He is generous in everything.
With regard to inspiration and generosity, I would like to express my profound gratitude to our esteemed colleagues from the Diplomat Magazine, Dr. Mayelinne De Lara, publisher, and Mr. Roy Lie A Tjam, editor, and all your efficient and capable team, dear friends, for your valuable support and enthusiasm in co-arranging this event.
Many thanks to Mr. Axel Lemmens, Art Gallery Manager.”
In her remarks the Aliaksandra Puhachova stated: “I’m happy that you are here at my solo presentation.
I’m very thankful to Mr. Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus Andrei Eudachenka, and the whole team of Belarus embassy for the huge support. We have a lot of plans and ideas. And may this event be a starting point of all our future plans. Also big thanks to Axel Lemmens, a gallery manager of WTC gallery for the beautiful space and help in organising this event.
I would like to say that last few years were quite difficult. Everything was closed, one was isolated from another. However, I was still keep on producing my art works and moving forward. I went on a few art fairs, participated in group exhibitions outside and in the Netherlands. My art is a chronicle of my experiences, thoughts and ideas, that I create day by day. I make non figurative art, and my art doesn’t tell a story until the end.
The goal of a viewer, your goal is — to have an ability to read this hidden signs in my works without the words, to hear the sounds without the noice, to see unnamed feelings. Let’s celebrate art tonight!”
Aliaksandra has had international exposure of her works in Minsk and Vilnius. Furthermore, she is a member of Maakhaven, an atelier-complex and platform in The Hague.
Aliaksandra walked her guests through the stylish WTC-gallery to view the collection of her paintings, a few of which are titled: Notes of a stray dreamer; Notes of a weary wanderer; After dark ballad; Smooth Jazz; Mirage, and more.
The guests attending the opening of the exhibition included the heads- and representatives of the embassies of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Costa Rica, Iran, Kazakhstan, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, USA, the Apostolic Nuncio and friends.
A relaxed and pleasant ambiance filled the WTC art gallery. Cocktails and Belarusian bites contributed to the major success of the evening.
