Family Tree

2024

Pencil drawing and digital paint

The idea was that the tree is depicted as a solid unity with a powerful bough, but in reality it is composed of two species of plants. It is a subtle combination of Oak and Linden. Oak is the masculine element, symbolizing longevity, perseverance and strength. Linden is a feminine element, symbolizing fertility, life, love and family life. The branches of these trees intertwine, showing their leaves and fruits in relation to the people featured in the tree. In addition, according to ancient, slavic beliefs, the shadow of the oak tree was considered benevolent, bringing sleep of healing. In the illustration, the tree is lit from behind, and the gentle shadow it casts, falls on the viewer, “coming out” as if from the painting.

The finished illustration is a framed, archival, fine art print.

The visible names have been fictionalized, to protect the client’s privacy