Dialogue that didn't exist #6 Painting

Anatoliy (Toli) Menkiv is a Ukrainian painter, graphic artist, designer, art teacher, and curator of cultural events. Working in the style of abstract expressionism, he draws inspiration from travels, personal experiences, and the complexity of human emotions. His art combines bold experimentation with philosophical depth, seamlessly intertwined with cultural traditions. Educated in Painting and Fine Arts at the Dnipropetrovsk Art College and later in Graphic Art and Design at the Ukrainian Academy of Printing in Lviv, Menkiv combines a strong academic foundation with a bold, innovative spirit. Menkiv’s technique is a vivid interplay of tradition and innovation. His canvases reveal energetic brushstrokes—at times sweeping and powerful, at times delicate and precise. Acrylics and oils form the core of his work, enriched by experiments with fluorescent and metallic tones. Through textured surfaces, aerosol paints, and layered effects, he builds abstract worlds where tension and harmony coexist, inviting viewers into a realm of contemplation and emotion. Beyond the canvas, Anatoliy is deeply socially engaged. He founded the volunteer project “Doctor Heals the Body, Art Heals the Soul”, where he teaches painting to wounded soldiers affected by the war in Ukraine. The program helps them process trauma, rediscover creativity, and reintegrate into civilian life. He also curates exhibitions and charity auctions of their works, raising funds to support recovery and rehabilitation programs. Menkiv is a member of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine, the Designers Union of Ukraine (DUU), and the C-IDEA International association (China). He is also co-founder and chairman of the DUU in Dnipro and co-founder and director of the COW International Design Festival, which brings together creative talents from around the world. Anatoliy has been widely recognized for his contributions to art, design, and social initiatives. His artistic achievements have earned him diplomas from the National Union of Artists of Ukraine for the creation of high-art painting works, including the triptych series “Metaphysics” (in 2022, 2024). He was also awarded the Second Prize at the “Dotted lines of the future” exhibition at the Art Museum in Dnipro, Ukraine, and received an Honorary Medal from the Designers Union of Ukraine for his significant contributions to the development of design in the country.