Українка 1910

"Українка" is a painting by Mykhailo Boychuk, who had the challenge of trying to convey the true essence of his sitter. Boychuk uses a subdued palette of earth tones, ochres, and creams to create a serene and almost ethereal atmosphere. The texture looks relatively smooth, and the paint seems applied in thin layers, allowing the forms to emerge gently. The bold lines give a certain strength to the image, while the face retains an element of mystery. I imagine Boychuk standing before the canvas, brush in hand, carefully building up the layers, constantly adjusting and refining the image. He seems to be reaching back to a Byzantine ideal, perhaps echoing icons in some way. I can see him thinking about how to capture not just the likeness, but also the inner spirit and cultural identity of this woman. The image feels both modern and ancient. Boychuk knew how to channel and embrace ambiguity, letting the painting evolve organically through his touch. This openness is what makes the artwork so captivating.