Watercolor, pigmented ink drawing, paper, 2022
60 x 40 cm
As a reference for this work, I used a symbol that is understandable for all Ukrainians. It’s Oranta (Virgin) of St. Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv. It is an original mosaic from the 11th century, called the indestructible wall, because, since then, it has never been destroyed or damaged. She, the primary protector of the country, is prayed for defense against enemies, thieves, fires, and diseases. This is probably where the belief comes from: as long as Oranta remains at St. Sophia, Kyiv will resist and, with it, all of Ukraine. At the same time, it is a tribute to all civilian and military women who defend their loved ones against the consequences of war. This woman under the white scarf wears a military uniform, and she is ready to mobilize to defend her loved ones against the enemies who have intruded on her home.