Great Prophets. Prophet Iol 2015

Dmytro Kavsan made this drawing with ink, with decisive strokes and washes of diluted pigment. The washes create soft grey areas, while sharp, dark lines define the figures and objects. I imagine Kavsan in his studio, rapidly working out this enigmatic scene. A large fish on a pillar looms above two robed figures and a reclining man. Is the fish a symbol, a deity, or just a surreal presence? What are the prophets saying? What is the reclining man thinking? The economical use of ink creates a sense of immediacy. The stark contrast between black and white adds to the drawing's mysterious quality, encouraging us to look closer and imagine the story behind the image. Like other artists, Kavsan has a unique vision, expressed through the simple yet powerful medium of ink on paper. His image reminds us that art can be a window into other worlds.