Ottawa's Slovak community is full of talented artists whose work deserves praise and acknowledgment. On the evening of April 24th, the Slovak Embassy opened its doors yet again and hosted a reception to celebrate the accomplishments of an exceptional young artist, painter, and jewellery maker, Andrea Dankaninova.
Andrea studied visual art at the University of Presov and has several years of teaching experience. She has lived in Canada since 2004 and is presently working at the Slovak Embassy in the Consular Section.
Andrea's official artistic premiere took place in the fall of 2011 and now, three and a half years later, she invited us to witness another one-of-a-kind exhibit, "Transformations of the Slovak Soul." In the words of His Excellency, the Slovak Ambassador Andrej Droba, "Andrea's paintings are a symbol of the dynamism, youth, and success of Slovakia."
The exhibit presented thirty-five brand new paintings neither of which was named by the author, only numbered. She left it up to the admirers to be creative and assign their own names to these works of art.
Andrea's specialty is painting on silk but she is equally as talented in her jewellery creations. In addition to paintings, attendees were able to purchase postcards, necklaces and earrings. As Andrea proudly divulged in her welcome remarks, the painting displayed on the invitation sold right away.
The special atmosphere of the colourful evening was reinforced by the musical piano accompaniment of Alena Rosochova who brought to life Ludovico Einaudi's Dietro Casa and Nuvelo nere pieces.
The artwork decorating the walls of the Slovak Embassy reflected Andrea's kindness, friendliness, generosity, and sincerity; it was authentic, unique, and inspiring; and thanks to it we all had a splendid opportunity to partake in witnessing the transformation of the Slovak soul.
Text: Maria Habanikova, Photos: Tibor Dej Photography
