“In the blink of an eye, our lives have changed. As you look at these art pieces, I invite you to reflect on how you came through the blurred times of 2020 with greater strength. As if seeing through a new lens, I encourage you to envision the brighter days ahead. This is my wink of support to you.” -April Popko
As 2020 nears an end, I circle back to where my inspiration began. Just before the new year, I had thought to announce my upcoming collection, “2020 Vision”. Symbolically, it was supposed to be a year of innovation, focused ideas, growth and clarity. In contrast, the world experienced life through a very different lens and we were forced to look at life with different eyes.
I was intent on focusing my energy toward improving my art practice. I thought I’d be full speed ahead. Planning exhibitions, events and parties full of adventure and perhaps traveling more than before. With people requesting more portrait work from me, I was up for the challenge. Then the pandemic hit. As covid-19 spread, we were forced to conceal our mouths (and smiles) with masks, connecting more with our eyes. We had to isolate ourselves and communication took a new shape. People had to work from home, children had computer-schooling and families and friends were distanced. Global online meetings erupted and we had to learn a new norm. Times were unclear, as if squinting through one eye. We had to adapt. Figuratively-speaking, the threads that had been used to sew fabric face masks, were somehow simultaneously weaving the fabric of our society together.
As the world went indoors and online, under lockdown and into quarantine, I was not sure how people would respond to artwork at all, with so many other priorities focused on our health and livelihood. To my surprise, as people quarantined, it was apparent they looked outward, at blank walls and computer screens, searching for beauty and inspiration. With no one to socialize with, art seemed like an escape for many—a window, if you will. People needed to connect and positive energy was in high demand. Artists from around the world, including myself, were moved to create “pandemic”-related artwork but I noticed people still wanted beauty and optimism to fill their homes. Amidst the dreadful nightly news, people needed uplifting and so I continued to paint vibrant flowers, sailboats and rainbow colors, hoping to be of some solace (or service) to society. I painted these scenes, but I still, however, needed to create my 2020 Vision, to get my message out.
What does 2020 Vision mean?
When a person can see with 20/20 Vision, it’s considered to be a perfect 3D picture. With only one eye, however, it is true that the remaining eye would, in turn, need to become stronger. Figuratively ‘blinded’ by the events in 2020, I see how people are gaining new strengths amidst all the uncertainty. I view that in life, with each challenge comes a new strength. Whether we can see clearly during this time or not, I offer through this art series a wink-- an unspoken gesture, signaling support every time you set eyes on it.
As 2020 nears an end, I circle back to where my inspiration began. Just before the new year, I had thought to announce my upcoming collection, “2020 Vision”. Symbolically, it was supposed to be a year of innovation, focused ideas, growth and clarity. In contrast, the world experienced life through a very different lens and we were forced to look at life with different eyes.
I was intent on focusing my energy toward improving my art practice. I thought I’d be full speed ahead. Planning exhibitions, events and parties full of adventure and perhaps traveling more than before. With people requesting more portrait work from me, I was up for the challenge. Then the pandemic hit. As covid-19 spread, we were forced to conceal our mouths (and smiles) with masks, connecting more with our eyes. We had to isolate ourselves and communication took a new shape. People had to work from home, children had computer-schooling and families and friends were distanced. Global online meetings erupted and we had to learn a new norm. Times were unclear, as if squinting through one eye. We had to adapt. Figuratively-speaking, the threads that had been used to sew fabric face masks, were somehow simultaneously weaving the fabric of our society together.
As the world went indoors and online, under lockdown and into quarantine, I was not sure how people would respond to artwork at all, with so many other priorities focused on our health and livelihood. To my surprise, as people quarantined, it was apparent they looked outward, at blank walls and computer screens, searching for beauty and inspiration. With no one to socialize with, art seemed like an escape for many—a window, if you will. People needed to connect and positive energy was in high demand. Artists from around the world, including myself, were moved to create “pandemic”-related artwork but I noticed people still wanted beauty and optimism to fill their homes. Amidst the dreadful nightly news, people needed uplifting and so I continued to paint vibrant flowers, sailboats and rainbow colors, hoping to be of some solace (or service) to society. I painted these scenes, but I still, however, needed to create my 2020 Vision, to get my message out.
What does 2020 Vision mean?
When a person can see with 20/20 Vision, it’s considered to be a perfect 3D picture. With only one eye, however, it is true that the remaining eye would, in turn, need to become stronger. Figuratively ‘blinded’ by the events in 2020, I see how people are gaining new strengths amidst all the uncertainty. I view that in life, with each challenge comes a new strength. Whether we can see clearly during this time or not, I offer through this art series a wink-- an unspoken gesture, signaling support every time you set eyes on it.
April Popko
2020 Vision
Mixed dimensions (8cm wide)
Acrylic on wood/combined technique
Prague, CZ 2020
Note from the Artist:
I created 20 pieces, each texturized eye painted on a 20cm (or less) scrap-wood strip, 8cm wide. These scrap wood pieces (transformed into artwork) represent the act of using what we’ve got in front of us to create something even more beautiful and unique. The number “20” represents this year while “8” stands for infinity. Taking what we’ve gained from this historic year, we can transform our perspective and see with perfectly imperfect “20/20” vision as we infinitely travel through new experiences. Each piece has my handprint on the back. With this, I intend to connect more personally with you, offering a human touch during these isolated times.
2020 Vision
Mixed dimensions (8cm wide)
Acrylic on wood/combined technique
Prague, CZ 2020
Note from the Artist:
I created 20 pieces, each texturized eye painted on a 20cm (or less) scrap-wood strip, 8cm wide. These scrap wood pieces (transformed into artwork) represent the act of using what we’ve got in front of us to create something even more beautiful and unique. The number “20” represents this year while “8” stands for infinity. Taking what we’ve gained from this historic year, we can transform our perspective and see with perfectly imperfect “20/20” vision as we infinitely travel through new experiences. Each piece has my handprint on the back. With this, I intend to connect more personally with you, offering a human touch during these isolated times.
