Sophia of Kyiv 1966

Yuriy Khymych created "Sophia of Kyiv" using oil on cardboard. Khymych lived through times of great political and social upheaval which shaped his artistic vision. Here, Khymych presents us with the Saint Sophia Cathedral, an orthodox cathedral, in Kyiv. The painting, rendered in blue against a red and blue patterned sky, transcends a mere architectural study. Khymych does not maintain traditional representations but rather develops an alternative narrative. The use of vivid colors and bold lines evokes a sense of spiritual defiance, a visual resistance against the suppression of Ukrainian cultural identity during the Soviet era. The cathedral, a symbol of resilience, embodies the enduring spirit of a nation. "I want to show the beauty of my country." Khymych once said. As you stand before this painting, consider the emotional weight of cultural preservation and the quiet acts of defiance embedded within artistic expression.