In this work, the visual of the egg symbolises the beginning of life and the universe - as it does in many cultures. The painting of Easter eggs is one of the integral components of the feast of the Holy Resurrection and an ancient pagan ritual that is tightly intertwined with the Orthodox holiday. Women and children have always been involved in painting eggs in Ukrainian families. The process of painting Easter eggs is experienced as a magical action. To show the globality and grandeur of this action, Dobrovetska paints on a cosmic scale in a magically surreal manner. The majestic Sun-pysanka illuminates the flying Planets-pysanka. The heroes of the picture are in a state of spiritual and physical levitation, to draw focus to the idea of a creative flow.
Dobrovetska, since fleeing her home country, aims to highlight the roots of the Ukrainian community and their culture to push against narratives may stem from the Russo-Ukrainian war; transferring focus to enhance a sense of solidarity and wonder to that which is her community.
Artist +-
Irina Dobrovetska
“I am using paint to try and heal the wounds left by the war” -Irina Dobrovetska
Irina is an Odessa-based artist who had to flee war-torn Ukraine leaving family, friends and many of her artworks behind - some of which were lost when an exhibition hall in Kyiv burnt down after the shelling. Despite this, Dobrovetska, like many Ukrainians, is full of optimism for the future of her country. The artist places her work within the space of magical realism, depicting beauty over war zone terrors. Her recent series portrays women in traditional Ukrainian dress. In Ukraine women historically have been strong-willed and played an equal role in the family - even today we see a lot of women on the frontlines. Dobrovetska seeks to celebrate their character. Deeply interested in Ukrainian customs and rituals, she feels that now, when the war is waged to destroy and deny Ukrainians their own ethnicity, language and sovereignty, it is more important than ever to preserve and share her country’s culture with the world.
Donation +-
Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to UNITED24.
Artwork Details +-
Print medium: Printed, using the giclée method, on Hahnemühle German Etching fine art paper. A 310 gsm traditional mould-made copperplate printing paper, complete with an inkjet coating. The white art paper made from 100% alpha cellulose is characterised by its extraordinary velvety tactile feel and its fine, clearly defined felt structure with traits of a traditional artist board. It is acid- and lignin-free and meets the most exacting requirements in terms of age resistance.
Frame: Artwork is printed without a frame.
Shipping: Delivery duration is 4-7 business days within the UK, 7-10 business days across Continental Europe and 10-20 days for the rest of the world. Delivery to some countries will be subjected to additional import VAT and duties to be paid to the courier directly.