Sophia of Kyiv, interior 1959

Yuriy Khymych created this 60 by 40 cm watercolor painting of the interior of Sophia of Kyiv. The composition draws our eyes down a corridor through a sequence of archways. Light filters in, glancing off surfaces and creating an atmosphere of contemplative stillness. Khymych masterfully juxtaposes light and shadow to articulate the architectural space and the intricate details of the cathedral’s interior. The brushwork, while appearing loose and fluid, carefully constructs a sense of depth and perspective. The use of watercolor enhances the ethereal quality of the light, suggesting a space that is both concrete and imbued with spiritual presence. In this painting, Khymych doesn’t just represent a space but also captures an ambiance, prompting us to consider the interplay between the physical and the transcendental. The painting operates as a sign, directing our gaze through its architectural forms toward a contemplation of history, culture, and enduring human values.