September 22, 2023 Yulia Tulegenova, art critic and reviewer.

As I delve into the realm of contemporary art, Katerina Karp’s series, comprising “Ambrosia: Nectar of the Gods and Sisyphus’ Eternal Torment,” “Yao-hime’s Eternal Youth: The Enigmatic Ningyo and the Quest for Immortality,” “Sun Wukong: The Monkey King’s Quest for Immortality,” “Gilgamesh’s Odyssey: The Stolen Flower of Immortality,” and “Sir Galahad: The Holy Grail and the Pursuit of Eternal Life,” beckons like a siren’s call. Karp’s artworks seem to transcend the conventional, plunging deep into the psyche and collective memory of humanity, where the core theme lies in the archaic and fundamental desire for immortality across diverse cultures.

The central theme of Karp’s artistic journey is cleverly grounded in the symbolic link between immortality and consumption. Consumption, as depicted by her, transforms into a metaphor embodying humanity’s longing for longevity. Karp utilizes exaggerated depictions of wide-open mouths, subtly symbolizing not only the act of ingesting a substance but also the broader human desire to possess and control eternal life.

The exaggerated open mouths in her visuals become a central focal point, drawing the audience into the artwork and reinforcing the metaphorical significance of consumption. It is as though the subjects in her paintings are attempting to ingest elements that promise a taste of eternity. This astute approach transcends the mere physical act of consumption, delving into the psychological and emotional dimensions of the eternal human quest.

One of the captivating pieces in this series is “Gilgamesh’s Odyssey: The Stolen Flower of Immortality”. As we immerse ourselves in this artwork, we are immediately confronted by a fire-breathing dragon, its powerful and immense mouth menacingly open towards a seemingly defenseless flower. The symbolism is profound—the flower, fragile and gentle, juxtaposed against the formidable might of the dragon, represents life’s resilience against overwhelming forces.

The flower, against all odds, grows upwards, reaching for the sky, a visual defiance against the monstrous onslaught. Its upward growth becomes a metaphor for the unyielding human spirit, ever-reaching for immortality, resisting the forces that threaten to engulf it. The choice of beautiful yellow-orange colors echoes the rays of sunlight, evoking the perpetual struggle between light and shadow, good and evil, life and death.

In this poignant struggle, we observe a man clutching the flower, bravely battling the monstrous entity. However, he appears minuscule, akin to a grain of sand in this vast world. This stark contrast underscores the immense magnitude of the struggle, vividly illustrating the seemingly insurmountable odds that humanity faces in its relentless quest for immortality. The juxtaposition of the delicate human figure against the colossal dragon poignantly portrays the eternal struggle between mortality and the unending yearning for eternity.

Karp’s technique is a manifestation of her mastery of visual storytelling. Her meticulous detailing, vibrant color palette, and skillful execution in presenting each mythical narrative provide viewers with a rich and immersive experience. The juxtaposition of surreal and realistic elements in her depiction of mythical beings, such as the transformation of “ningyo” into unreal creatures, showcases her ability to seamlessly blend imagination with reality. This blend captivates the viewer, compelling them to question the boundary between what is real and what is born of the human imagination.

The choice to merge digital and visual art underscores Karp’s adaptability and her openness to modern artistic techniques. This amalgamation breathes contemporary life into ancient themes, rendering her art accessible and relevant to a diverse audience. It is through this fusion that Karp bridges the gap between eras, presenting age-old desires in a contemporary context, prompting introspection and contemplation.

Karp’s profound understanding of the enduring values embedded within myths and legends showcases her intellectual prowess as an artist. She elevates her work beyond mere visual representation, encapsulating the essence of these ancient tales and infusing them with new life. Her art becomes a vessel through which these timeless narratives can communicate with today’s audience, resonating with the primal longing for immortality that resides within every human soul.

Katerina Karp’s series is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the timeless human pursuit of immortality across cultures. Her technique, rich symbolism, and deep understanding of the human psyche are evident in every brushstroke. Through her art, she unfolds a captivating narrative that transcends borders and resonates with the fundamental desires of humanity. Karp’s artistic trek takes us on a voyage through eternal longings, leaving an indelible mark on our collective artistic consciousness, reminding us of our eternal quest for immortality.