This work presents the image of the Ukrainian Berehynia, reinterpreted through the form of a traditional motanka doll. The figure is placed frontally and almost symmetrically, giving it a sense of stability, concentration, and inner strength. Her arms extend outward in an open gesture—not one of request, but of protection and acceptance. The absence of individual facial features follows the tradition of the motanka: the cross on the face replaces portraiture with a symbolic sign that may be read as a union of solar energy, a spiritual centre, and a connection between the earthly and the celestial.
The composition is structured around the vertical axis of the female figure. Her long hair, falling on both sides, creates a dark frame for the light garment and strengthens the silhouette of the image. The central part of the dress is decorated with geometric ornamentation, where the rhythm of diamonds, squares, and star-like forms recalls traditional Ukrainian embroidery. These elements do not merely decorate the clothing; they create a visual language of heritage, memory, and cultural continuity.
The wreath of red poppies and golden wheat ears carries particular significance. Wheat is associated with the land, labour, abundance, and the continuation of life, while poppies introduce themes of remembrance, dignity, and resilience. Together, they form a kind of halo around the Berehynia’s head, emphasising her sacred presence. The necklaces and decorative details across the chest add a ceremonial quality to the figure while keeping it rooted in folk tradition.
The colour palette is based on the combination of white, black, red, gold, green, and brown. The white garment creates a sense of purity and light; the dark areas of the hair and lower clothing add depth to the composition, while the red and gold accents focus attention on the wreath, ornamentation, and jewellery. The light background keeps the figure at the centre of perception and reinforces its emblematic, almost icon-like character.
Rather than reproducing a traditional image literally, the work offers a contemporary authorial interpretation. The Berehynia appears here as a symbol of feminine strength, protection of the home, cultural memory, and the connection between generations. Through the visual language of the motanka doll, embroidery, and botanical symbols, the artist speaks of Ukrainian identity as a living tradition—one that is preserved, passed on, and given new meaning in contemporary art.
