Her work is a correspondingly rich mix of the strong geometric shapes which we associate with East European art in recent decades, and a free-spirited, almost mischievous, approach to composition. Underpinning this mix, however, is a thoughtfulness that is rare in all the arts.
Zoja Trofimiuk’s sculpture bears all the hallmarks of an intellect that has thought long and hard about what the purpose of art is. At its best, it is the work of an artist in full maturity, and displays almost breathtaking technical ability. It is always energetic, challenging and provoking the onlooker. It is work of unquestionable and enduring quality.
Her Icarus, however, is somewhat of a contrast. It is a curious, misshapen mass of metal teetering uncertainly on a single feeble pin. An ungainly bloated blob, it seems to be straining absurdly for the heavens, engaged in a clumsy struggle with the inexorable laws of gravity. As a piece, Trofimiuk’s Icarus captures the essential characteristics of this most challenging and talented sculptor. It is culturally informed, skilfully created with a fine eye for balance and energy. It is also a work of mature and slightly subversive humour, if not irony.
Andrew Wilkins, MUSE August 1991, Canberra