Dmytro Shavala stands as a luminary in contemporary Ukrainian art, his expertise in wooden sculpture transcending borders to captivate audiences around the globe. Born in 1994 in the quaint town of Shklo, Shavala’s artistic journey has been marked by relentless dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted connection to his craft.
Shavala’s early immersion in the art world began at the Joseph Stanko art school, where he first discovered his passion for working with wood. This initial spark of inspiration would propel him to further hone his skills at the Lviv National Academy of Arts, where he delved deeper into the intricate artistry of sculpting. His thirst for knowledge and exploration led him to Italy, where he participated in the esteemed workshop “Fonderia Versiliese,” an experience that would leave an indelible mark on his artistic practice.
At the core of Shavala’s artistic ethos lies a profound appreciation for abstraction, as he skillfully navigates the complexities of form, texture, and colour in his sculptures. Drawing from his research into Ukrainian wooden sculpture, Dmytro Shavala seeks to uncover the inherent aesthetic value and identity embedded within his cultural heritage.
Shavala’s sculptures are a testament to his mastery of the medium, seamlessly blending wood textures and tones with bold, expressive colours to create visually stunning compositions reminiscent of op-art. His works pulsate with energy, characterized by iterative elements and dynamic geometric shapes that blur the line between painting and sculpture.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation, Shavala fearlessly experiments with materials, venturing into bronze casting to further expand the horizons of his artistic expression. His creations serve as a reflection of his environment, infused with the vibrant hues of his surroundings, the precision of geometric forms, and the endless possibilities of colour.
Shavala’s artistic prowess has earned him recognition on the international stage, with exhibitions spanning from London to Italy and beyond. Notably, he was awarded the prestigious Fonderia Artistica Versiliese award in 2019, cementing his status as a rising star in the art world.
As his works find homes in private collections across continents, from the United States to China, Great Britain to Saudi Arabia, Shavala’s artistic legacy continues to unfold, leaving an enduring imprint on the hearts and minds of all who encounter his mesmerizing creations.