Lesia KHOMENKO

Lesia Khomenko  is a contemporary multidisciplinary artist from Ukraine who lives and works in New York, USA. She is renowned for her expressive, large-scale artworks exploring themes such as wartime experiences, identity and the consequences of military conscription. Khomenko completed her education at the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture in Kyiv in 2004, where she honed her skills and developed her distinctive artistic style. As well as being an artist, Lesia is also a co-founder and active member of the R.E.P. group (since 2004) and the Hudrada curatorial group (since 2008). She was a finalist for the PinchukArtPrize in 2009, 2011 and 2013 in recognition of her notable contributions to contemporary art. She was also honoured with the Future Generations Art Prize in 2012 alongside the R.E.P. group, an initiative established by Victor Pinchuk. Furthermore, she received the Kazimir Malevich Artist Award in 2012 and 2016, which highlights her significance within the artistic community. Her artworks are held in various collections, including those of M HKA in Belgium, the Ludwig Museum in Hungary, the Art Collection Telekom and the Albertinum in Germany. These institutions enhance understanding and appreciation of her work, which often delves into intricate themes. She has showcased her art in numerous solo and group exhibitions, including at the Ukrainian Museum in New York, the Albertinum in Dresden, and the Collateral Event of the 59th International Art Exhibition at the Venice Biennale.

She has also showcased her artistic talent at the European Parliament, the Museum Folkwang and the Fridman Gallery in New York City. Participating in various residency programmes has enriched her artistic practice and broadened her creative perspectives. These include the Oasis Pointe Residences in Miami, USA (2022–23), where she collaborated with other artists within a vibrant community; the Martha MOCA Artist Residency in New Jersey, USA (2022); the Emergency Residency at Ujazdowski Castle in Warsaw, Poland (2022); and the Working Room in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, which she curated and participated in in 2022. She also attended the Salzburg International Summer Academy of Fine Arts in Salzburg, Austria (2020), where she explored innovative ideas and techniques. She also participated in the Leipzig International Art Residency in Leipzig, Germany (2008), and the Visual Culture Research Centre in Kyiv, Ukraine (2005–2007).

Khomenko's creative lineage has influenced her relationship with art and visual storytelling, shaping her approach and the themes she explores in her work. The depth of her experiences and the stories she conveys through her pieces reflect a rich tapestry of emotions and narratives.