The Bird of Happiness 1970

Alla Horska created this painting, titled "The Bird of Happiness", as an exploration into Ukrainian identity and culture. Born in Kyiv in 1929, Horska became a significant figure in the Ukrainian art scene, particularly during the Soviet era. Here, the bird, a recurring motif in Ukrainian folk art, is rendered in vibrant colors against a dynamic backdrop. The artwork is steeped in symbolism, reflecting the historical and cultural context of Ukraine under Soviet rule. The bright colors and traditional folk motifs serve as a celebration of Ukrainian heritage, asserting cultural identity in the face of political repression. Horska’s work often touched on themes of national identity and resistance, which put her at odds with the Soviet regime. In many ways her activism, in both life and art, led to her untimely death in 1970. "The Bird of Happiness" is not just a painting, but a testament to Horska's courage, and a poignant reminder of the personal and political struggles faced by artists living under authoritarian regimes.