On 1 March 2024, I had the pleasure of taking part in the exhibition “CHIAROSCURO”, held at the Gallery of the Tarnów Cultural Centre in Tarnów. It was an exhibition of painting and drawing by participants of the Classical Artistic Techniques groups and the Life Drawing Course, operating as part of the open Visual Arts Studio at TCK. The opening took place on 1 March 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at the TCK Gallery, and the exhibition was also available to view on 2 March 2024.
The “CHIAROSCURO” Exhibition – A Meeting of Light and Shadow
The title of the exhibition “Chiaroscuro” refers to the artistic concept of light and shade: the conscious construction of an image through the contrast between light and shadow. For centuries, this has been one of the most important elements of classical painting and drawing. It allows artists to reveal depth, form, emotion, and the atmosphere of portrayed figures and spaces.
For me, participating in this exhibition was an important artistic experience, because light plays a special role in my work. In my paintings and icons, light is not merely a visual effect. It often becomes a symbol of silence, presence, spirituality, and inner focus.
My Participation in the Exhibition at the Tarnów Cultural Centre
As part of the exhibition, I presented my works, which corresponded with the themes of chiaroscuro, classical artistic techniques, and the search for depth through form, colour, and composition. Participation in the event gave me the opportunity to show a fragment of my artistic language in the space of the TCK Gallery – a place that supports local culture, artistic education, and creative development.
The “CHIAROSCURO” exhibition was also a space where different artistic sensibilities could meet. The presented works revealed the participants’ individual perspectives on painting, drawing, modelling with light, and the relationship between observation and interpretation.
Chiaroscuro in My Artistic Practice
The motif of light and shadow is particularly close to me. In my artistic practice, there is often a tension between what is visible and hidden, material and spiritual, delicate and expressive. Light helps me build the mood of a painting, while shadow gives it silence, depth, and contemplation.
In the icons I create using the technique of egg tempera on wood, light carries an additional meaning. Gold, reflections, and subtle tonal transitions are not merely decorative — they are part of the symbolic language of the image. For this reason, an exhibition entitled “CHIAROSCURO” felt naturally close to me also on a thematic level.
Tarnów, Art, and Artistic Development
Taking part in the exhibition at the Tarnów Cultural Centre was another stage in my creative journey. Events like this are important not only because they provide an opportunity to present artworks, but also because they allow artists to meet viewers, other creators, and the local artistic community.
I am glad that I could be part of this exhibition and present my works in a place that actively supports art, education, and creative exploration.
Summary
The “CHIAROSCURO” exhibition at the TCK Gallery in Tarnów was an event dedicated to painting, drawing, and the power of light and shadow within an image. For me, it was a valuable opportunity to present my own works, as well as to further develop my reflection on light, one of the most important motifs present in my artistic practice.
