Chloe Serenko

In “Urbania” my series of paintings delves into the nuanced landscape of hookup culture and situationships; navigating the online to in-person courting we have normalized in recent times. The series captures the transient, often fleeting nature of these connections amidst the backdrop of the domestic—a space both intimate and impersonal.

The paintings in this collection explore the dichotomy between the vibrant energy of urban life and the underlying solitude experienced within it. Each piece reflects the emotional spectrum that accompanies contemporary relationships, from the euphoria of spontaneous encounters to the lingering sense of ambiguity and disconnection.

The domestic setting serves as both a character and a stage in these works, illustrating how the relentless pace and anonymity of life influence and shape personal interactions. Using immediate, engaged brushstrokes and a palette that shifts from neon vibrancy to sombre hues, embodying the highs and lows of modern romantic entanglements.

Through the lens of a young queer woman navigating these ephemeral connections, the series offers an introspective look at how urban lifestyle affects perceptions of intimacy and self-worth. The paintings highlight the tension between a desire for genuine connection and the often superficial nature of contemporary relationships.

“Us” invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences within this landscape of fleeting moments, prompting a dialogue about the true meaning of connection in an age defined by constant motion and shifting identities.

About Chloe

Chloe Serenko (she/they), is a multidisciplinary artist based in London, Ontario, who graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts—Honours Specialization in Studio Art from the University of Western Ontario. She has consistently achieved recognition throughout their emerging career; Serenko’s work is included in many notable group, solo and juried exhibitions, such as her first solo show “The Waiting Room” at Good Sport Gallery in February 2024 and her graduate exhibition “Sincerely,” at the artLAB Gallery in March 2024. Her curatorial projects such as “Midnight Oil” and “Nuit Violette” showcase her passionate commitment to community dialogue. Serenko is involved in professional affiliations like Forest City Gallery and Station Gallery. Chloe invites audiences to delve into the emotional and sentimental depths of the human experience through the allegorical narratives in her artwork, subtly emphasising the significance of memory, self-reflection, and time in her pursuit of true creative freedom.

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Images:

  • Us in Kitchen, 14’’ x 18’’, Oil on wood, 2024
  • Brockville Tunnel, 14’’ x10’’ Watercolour and chalk pastel on paper, 2023
  • Us in Mourning, 18’’ x 24’’, Oil on wood, 2024