Original artwork description:

Inga Makarova’s Belka & Strelka is an evocative and visually captivating tribute to the famed Soviet space dogs. Painted in vibrant acrylics and accented with glowing neon, the artwork captures a key moment in Cold War history through a contemporary artistic lens. Belka and Strelka are shown suited up in vivid orange cosmonaut gear, their expressions poised between loyalty and uncertainty. The real neon circles representing their helmet visors transform the work into a dynamic light installation after dark.

Behind the figures, the textured black canvas is filled with layered Cyrillic phrases drawn from Soviet propaganda – a visual murmur that echoes the ideological noise of the space race. Makarova plays with this historic symbolism while subtly undermining its triumphalism. Her artistic language combines ironic commentary with painterly craftsmanship, creating a layered and compelling image.

This mixed media piece blurs boundaries between painting, sculpture, and neon signage. It stands as both homage and critique, revealing the artist’s fascination with the intersection of history, memory, and light. Belka & Strelka is a bold, collectible work by one of Ukraine’s most inventive contemporary artists.

Materials used:

Acrylic, Neon Light on Canvas

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