Illustration. 'Fairy Tales: Teremok. Mizgir'. 1910

Heorhiy Narbut created this illustration, titled 'Fairy Tales: Teremok. Mizgir', as part of his work reviving Ukrainian national identity through art. Born in Ukraine when it was part of the Russian Empire, Narbut was a key figure in the development of Ukrainian graphic design. This piece is a window into the world of Slavic folklore, reimagined through the lens of early 20th-century artistic innovation. The image depicts a scene with animals, like the polite hare in a coat who respectfully doffs his cap, taking on human characteristics and inhabiting a landscape dotted with curious details like the enormous animal skull that now serves as housing. Narbut’s style, characterized by its elegant lines and subtle color palettes, recalls traditional folk art while embracing modern aesthetics. His art resonates with a sense of longing for a cultural heritage suppressed under imperial rule. There’s a quiet, almost dreamlike quality to the scene, inviting us to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves and the values they embody. It encourages us to consider the role of art in preserving and celebrating identity, especially during times of cultural and political change.