Famous Ukrainian artist Yevhenia Gapchynska, known for her paintings of angels, unexpectedly presented a portrait of the head of the Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, in her signature “childish style,” NV reports .
The new work was posted on Gapchynska’s Instagram with the caption “Budanov’s charming smile,” causing a considerable response among her followers. The artist did not explain what inspired her to create this unusual portrait.
In the comments, users note the similarity of the artwork to the real-life Budanov, are interested in the symbolism of the frog in the aquarium and its pose, and thank him for lifting their spirits.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time that Hapchynska has addressed political topics. In 2022, she created a portrait of the then British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and in the summer of 2023, she dedicated her work to Ukrainian families whose men are defending the country, calling it “500 Days of Our Dad at War.”
It is significant that Yevheniia’s husband, artist Dmytro Hapchynskyi, is also at the front, defending Ukraine.