Analyzing the Identity Within the Works of William Kurelek

Abstract

The aim of the research.The article deals with the problem of identity in the works of Ukrainian-Canadian artist William Kurelek. It outlines the necessary preconditions of the research in the context of his artistic searches. Based on in-depth analysis of a numerous series created by the artist, the research distinguishes four separate types of identity, which the artist presented, in the following contexts: national, social, personal, and group. Each type of identity is analyzed according to type, and supporting examples of Kurelek's works are provided. Research methodology. General scientific and interdisciplinary methods of research-analysis, synthesis, generalization and a comparative method-were used to carry out the aim. The scientific novelty of the research is the artistic analysis of some of the art-works by Kurelek, as well as to compose a typology of identities in his art. Conclusions. The concept of identity is presented throughout his work according to a constant, underlying formula, which Kurelek understood to be a synergy of ethnic, gender, and religious characteristics applied to various individuals who demonstrate belonging to a particular group.