Taras Tolstikov (b. 1993 in Donetsk, Ukraine) studied architecture at DonDABA and later graduated KNUBA in Kyiv. In 2016, he moved to Budapest to focus on art where he establish an atelier with his friend William.
In 2017, Taras returned to Kyiv but shortly was invited to Budapest for his first solo exhibition at the Ukrainian Cultural Center, called “Vándorló Experience.” In 2019, Taras opened his solo show titled “Spatial Relations” in Budapest, which reflected on russian invasion of Donetsk. Between 2019 and 2020, Taras and William conducted several workshops across Europe (Paris, Madrid, Budapest) based on concepts from Gilles Deleuze’s books.
In 2022, following the onset of the full-scale invasion, Taras co-curated a show “Reverse Perspective of War” in Budapest. Then, he was invited to exhibit his works at The European Centre Athens in Athens with world about Mariupol siege and occupied Donetsk.
Later Taras participated in the exhibition within Mariupol Theatre Festival “City of Hope – Mariupol” in the end of 2022 in Berlin. In April of 2024, he co-curated a photo exhibition for his grandmother in Paris. In September Taras exhibited his recent AI work and installation in NYC during Bushwick Open Studios. Taras is represented by Atamian Hovsepian and Zema galleries.
Taras Tolstikov’s practice explores notions of fragility and resilience, as well as the dominant and invasive forces present in both human and natural worlds. His work engages with our experiences of time, memory, and the recurrence of events. Taras often addresses political and social issues, critically examining authoritarian and colonial systems and their impact on societies and local landscapes. Through satirical caricature, he critiques regimes, questions myths, and reflects on the absurdity of power structures. His figurative works frequently embrace non-binary forms, challenging societal norms and expectations..
About
