Illustration to 'The crane and heron. Bear.' 1907

This is an illustration to 'The crane and heron. Bear.' by Heorhiy Narbut. Narbut was a Ukrainian graphic designer whose career was cut short in 1920 at the age of 34, during the Ukrainian-Soviet War. This illustration reflects the artist's deep engagement with Ukrainian folk tales, and it uses a visual language rooted in national identity. The narrative is set against the backdrop of a vibrant landscape, a nod to the land's cultural significance. This particular story tells of an old woman and her community defeating a bear by working together. The images and story emphasize themes of resilience and resistance, which resonate deeply considering the political turmoil in Ukraine during Narbut's life. Heorhiy Narbut's work offers a powerful example of how art intersects with national identity and collective memory. The image serves as a reminder of the enduring strength found in shared stories and community solidarity during times of adversity.