"Embrace of Protection" 50x70cm. 2024

paper, gouache, charcoal, pencils

This artwork portrays a Ukrainian soldier tenderly embracing a Javelin missile system. The absence of a background focuses all attention on the central figure and his emotional connection to the weapon. The soldier appears serene, even happy, which creates a striking contrast given the context of war.

The expression of peace and contentment on the soldier's face suggests a deep bond with the Javelin, a symbol of defense and protection. This intimate moment can be interpreted as a "love story in reality" during wartime, where the tools of war become lifelines, offering a sense of security and hope amid the chaos.

The depiction of this unlikely embrace highlights the emotional complexities of conflict, where the lines between survival, protection, and human connection blur. It underscores the reality that in times of war, even instruments of destruction can become sources of comfort and reassurance.

Overall, the artwork conveys a powerful message about the human capacity to find solace and even joy in the most unexpected places, reflecting the profound and multifaceted experiences of soldiers in wartime.