HEARTFUL SAVIOUR - Irina Kalishnikova

Irina was an integral part of the Arkangels to Russia pre-exhibition reconnaissance. Generously, she opened her home - where she lived in an ancient warehouse side by side with several families - to artist and friends. A performer at heart, she magically converted a month of food rations into a feast fit for kings and queens, framed by an aura of dignity and grace. Having lived so long without much privacy or funds, her resourcefulness and creativity had evolved to a state of mastery.

Later, while a student in urban planning at the Leningrad Institute of Economics and Engineering, Irina bravely assisted in transporting two of the Guardian portraits, stranded in Russia, home to Canada for a Grimsby, Ontario art opening. In spite of temptations to seek refugee status, she returned to complete her degree.

An aura of childlike curiosity surrounds the portrait of Irina; a perfect balance to her striking good looks, sensuality and heroism. 

"The world is a boat and I'm in it."

-- George Johnston