Crucifixion 1963

Hryhorii Havrylenko made this crucifixion drawing with ink, at an unknown date. The linear hatching is so thorough; it’s a real commitment to the process. The stark contrast between the white figures and the densely marked ground creates a palpable tension. You can almost feel the weight of the atmosphere, a sense of confinement, maybe even despair. Looking at it, I keep thinking about the intense physicality of art making, of the body. Havrylenko's marks aren't just lines, they're like scars, each one a testament to time and labor. Notice that little swirl at the end of the arm on the right, it almost looks like a fingerprint – a tiny gesture. This piece reminds me a little of Philip Guston’s later work. Both explore themes of suffering, and use a kind of reduced palette. Art isn't about neat, tidy answers. It's about embracing the mess, the ambiguity, and the ongoing conversation.