"CORRUPTION 1.1" 2024

paper, gouache, pastel, charcoal, pencils

The artwork serves as a scathing critique of corruption amidst the chaos of war in Ukraine. At its center stands a grotesque corrupt official, adorned with a crown and halo, yet his true nature concealed by a pig mask, symbolizing greed and moral degradation. His possession of drumsticks and the adjacent drum symbolizes the misdirection of resources by corrupt officials, neglecting the needs of soldiers. Surrounding him are heaps of money, representing the unchecked greed that fuels corruption.

Behind the corrupt official, two soldiers engaged in battle offer a stark contrast, symbolizing the dual realities faced by the nation: one of opulence and corruption, and the other of sacrifice and struggle. This juxtaposition highlights the profound disparity between those who exploit the turmoil for personal gain and those who endure the hardships of war. Through its rich symbolism, the artwork denounces the betrayal of trust and the profound consequences of corruption on the integrity and well-being of society.