Albasty by Alina Khozhan

Medium: Acrylic on canvas

Dimensions: 60 x 60 cm

Year: 2025

Price: $3500.00 USD

Status: available

This painting addresses the topic of domestic violence. It was created under the influence of terrifying statistics about domestic violence against pregnant women and their tragic mortality rates. Shockingly, the cause of death is most often their own partner. Through the ancient myth of Albasty — a demon who steals the souls of children and pregnant women — I sought to reflect this issue. The scene is enveloped in the darkness of a cave, the dwelling place of Albasty, which creates an atmosphere of inevitable doom. Within the shadows, the souls of children can be seen crying out, embodying the horror and despair of this fate. Every element of the background was intentionally depicted as dark and oppressive, amplifying the feeling that there is no escape. The pregnant woman, however, is placed a little further from the viewer, standing just outside the cave in a bright landscape with a waterfall. She enjoys the moment, unaware of the danger behind her. We, as viewers, clearly see the looming threat, yet we are powerless to warn or protect her.