SYMBOLIC AND ALLEGORICAL INTERPRETATION OF IMAGES IN THE GRAPHIC WORKS OF OLENA KULCHYTSKA

Abstract

In the current situation, the issue of national identity and consciousness of the Ukrainian people is very acute. In order to realize one's own uniqueness, it is necessary to deeply research historical figures, which will become the foundation and example for imitation of modern artists. One of such examples is Olena Kulchytska – the first woman – artist, public figure and teacher from Galicia. The purpose of the study is to analyze the graphics of Olena Kulchytska, to identify the dominant themes in her work and to describe their symbolic and allegorical interpretation. Research methods. The research is based on historical, comparative and analytical methods, which made it possible not only to get acquainted with the development of the artist's work in depth, but also how her works influenced the formation of a constellation of new artists at the beginning of the 20th century. Research results. Olena Kulchytska can rightly be considered a real mastodon of graphic art of Ukraine. Her contribution to the revival and return of this style cannot be overestimated. The article focuses on the theme of her works: from "genius simplicity" and depictions of everyday life, portraits of artists, princes, kings, and mythological heroes to the allegorical depiction of a cross-section of the state of society, the country, the people, and the world. Thanks to her hard work and love for art, she left behind a completely unique creative legacy, which became the foundation for many contemporaries of art, especially graphics. Conclusions. The significance of our research lies in the analysis of Olena Kulchytska's graphic works, thanks to which we can safely say that symbolism and allegorical images are not situational, but are the result of the artist's unique ability to sublimate sensitive experience into works. The results can be used for further analysis of other types of works by Olena Kulchytska and the works of her followers.