The Fourth 'Book of Schemes'. Album #1, the First Folder 1978

Valerii Lamakh rendered The Fourth 'Book of Schemes' in ink on paper, and its appearance is characterized by freehand techniques that do not rely on industrial means. Lamakh contrasts the flat page with layered mandalas of symbols, some with geometric and astronomical references. Their graphic quality is immediate, even playful, and suggests an intuitive process in which the artist experiments with ways of organizing visual information. We can imagine him turning the paper as he works, adjusting and refining the composition. The drawing’s concentric rings may reflect the influence of traditional Ukrainian folk art like pysanky, or painted Easter eggs, though here they are executed with a dark, urgent sensibility. The amount of work involved in the production process is evident from the intricacy of the designs, even though the materials and tools are relatively simple. Ultimately, the value of the artwork lies not only in its formal qualities but also in the artist's skill and labor. It challenges the traditional hierarchies of art by elevating drawing to a sophisticated level, showcasing the creative potential inherent in humble materials and the act of making.