Landscape. Sketch to the 'Beach' 1971

Hryhorii Havrylenko’s oil sketch presents a serene vista, encapsulating layers of earth, water, and foliage. The dense line of trees that dominate the horizon in this landscape traditionally symbolize life, growth, and a connection to nature. This motif of the forest as a symbol of the unknown, of shelter, has deep roots in folklore and art across cultures and eras. The forest appears as the dark forest in ancient Greek myths, or in German Romantic paintings, symbolizing both a refuge and a place of psychological exploration. The colors here are muted and tranquil, reflecting a peaceful emotional state, invoking feelings of nostalgia and a longing for the harmony of nature, similar to what we can see in the Hudson River School paintings. The cyclical symbolism of nature continues to evolve, resonating with our subconscious understanding of the natural world, offering a sense of continuity and connection.