Northwestern College will present “Inner Garden: Nature’s Reverie,” an exhibition of paintings by Ukrainian artist Yuliia Popova, Oct. 26 through Dec. 11 in Te Paske Gallery. A public reception with the artist is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m.
The exhibition features botanical watercolors, floral compositions and peaceful landscapes inspired by nature. Working in oil, watercolor and mixed media, Popova combines vibrant colors and organic forms to explore themes of harmony, movement and resilience.
After relocating from Ukraine to northwest Iowa, Popova found new inspiration in the region’s prairie landscapes, distinctive light and Dutch heritage. Her work incorporates these influences through whimsical floral imagery, including hand-painted traditional Dutch wooden shoes.
“This exhibition offers a space for reflection and inner peace; it celebrates how art allows us to honor our roots while blossoming in a new land,” says Popova.
Trained as an art educator in Ukraine, Popova previously served as a regional specialist in art education, mentoring teachers from 44 art schools. Since moving to the United States following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, she has continued pursuing her passion for painting and sharing beauty through art.
Meghan Charbonneau, assistant professor of art at Northwestern, selected Popova for the exhibition after encountering her work at several local art shows. “Her pieces were so beautifully rendered, and she has a wonderful command of her materials and an exceptional eye for composition and color,” says Charbonneau.
Northwestern’s Te Paske Gallery is located in the Korver Visual Arts Center on Highway 10 at 214 8th Street SW in Orange City. Gallery hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
