“Our Red Planet: Anna Bogatin Ott” explores space imagery, the pandemic, and the war in Ukraine through the lens of art.
Opening February 18, the abstract art of Ukranian-born artist Anna Bogatin Ott is on display in a new exhibition at the Delaware Art Museum. Our Red Planet: Anna Bogatin Ott is informed by NASA images from Mars and the artist’s meditations on the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
The title of the exhibition and the art explore the artist’s relationship with nature, space, and humanity. Anna Bogatin Ott created these new works of art in the midst of multiple political crises and natural disasters, including the war in Ukraine, which she calls, “a devastating a very personal tragedy.” In response, Bogatin Ott created a contemplative space for reflection and restoration. The artist will speak about her work in a public gallery talk on February 26, and celebrate the exhibition with Museum members on March 31.
“I strive to give the viewer an experience of serenity and calm, a safe, private space to contemplate, to heal, to connect to a greater whole,” explains Bogatin Ott, whose precise, quiet paintings are filled with subtly shifting, tranquil tones. Visitors are invited to follow the meditative path of a labyrinth created by the artist in the center of the exhibition. With Our Red Planet, Bogatin Ott has transformed the gallery into a sanctuary.
“Through works of art that explore both the wonder and tragedy of humanity, Anna Bogatin Ott’s art encourages us to reflect,” says Chief Curator and Curator of Contemporary Art Margaret Winslow. “I welcome Delaware Art Museum visitors to spend time in this exhibition breathing, looking, meditating, and contemplating our world and place in it.”
This exhibition is made possible by the Emily DuPont Exhibition Fund, with additional support provided by Heidi Nivling and Larry Becker of Larry Becker Contemporary Art. This organization is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.delawarescene.com.
About the Delaware Art Museum
For over 100 years, the Museum has served as a primary arts and cultural institution in Delaware. It is alive with experiences, discoveries, and activities to connect people with art and with each other. Originally created in 1912 to honor the renowned illustrator and Wilmington-native, Howard Pyle, the Museum’s collection has grown to over 12,000 works of art in our building and sculpture garden. Also recognized for British Pre-Raphaelite art, the Museum is home to the most comprehensive Pre-Raphaelite collection on display outside of the United Kingdom, and a growing collection of significant contemporary art.
Under the leadership of our Board of Trustees, the Delaware Art Museum is implementing a comprehensive approach to community and civic engagement. This exciting new strategic direction requires that we increase our value and relevance to all audiences. Visit delart.org to for the latest exhibitions, programs, and performances or connect with us via social media.
Photo by Shannon Woodloe.