ANATOLIY MELNYK'S ARTISTIC VISION OF THE “EXISTENCE” PROJECT

Abstract

This article interprets the “Existence” painting project, created by Anatolii Melnyk, a People’s Artist of Ukraine and Academician of the National Academy. The artist views this project as a comprehensive artistic model of human existence amid war and social upheaval. The study aims to identify the artistic features of the project, reveal the specifics of its symbolic language, and analyze the methods of visual representation of the inner states of modern humans. The methodological framework consists of formal-stylistic, iconographic, and iconological methods, which enable an analysis of the structure of the artistic image. A hermeneutic approach is applied to the interpretation of the deeper meanings of the images, while comparative analysis helps to determine the place of A. Melnyk’s work within the context of contemporary European painting. The article examines key paintings from the series, in which the artist visualizes experiences of suffering, fear, loneliness, and inner resistance through the deformation of the human figure, grotesque elements, intense coloration, and dynamic composition. The study demonstrates that the color scheme, built on a combination of cool shades and expressive red accents, serves as the primary vehicle for conveying meaning. The research substantiates that despite the tragic nature of the images, the light accents in the canvases symbolize a “life-affirming intention” and the indomitable spirit. The study elucidates that the visual language of the project reflects the philosophical ideas of 20th-century existentialism and a contemporary understanding of the social crisis. Particular attention is devoted to the moral dimension of the works, which prompts the viewer to reflect on personal responsibility and spiritual resilience. A. Melnyk’s artistic discourse is conceptualized as a “philosophy of tragedy,” in which Faith emerges as the quintessence of overcoming the absurdity of existence. The conclusion reached is that the “Existence” project combines Anatoliy Melnyk’s individual artistic experience with the collective memory of society, creating a dialogue between art, philosophy, and the reality of contemporary life. The artist’s works serve as an effective tool for overcoming traumatic experiences through deep existential reception. The scientific novelty lies in a comprehensive analysis of the painting project in the context of wartime events and contemporary Ukrainian culture.