Oil painting Venerable Macarius of Optina Oleksandr Gukalov

№AAA3240

"Venerable Macarius of Optina" is an evocative and spiritually profound oil painting that depicts the revered Russian Orthodox monk and saint, Macarius of Optina. The composition focuses on the upper half of the saint, emphasizing his contemplative and serene expression. The central figure of Venerable Macarius is depicted wearing the traditional black monastic robe and a high monastic hat, or klobuk, which frames his solemn face. His long, white beard contrasts with the dark attire, highlighting his aged wisdom and piety. The artist has skillfully used light and shadow to enhance the textures of the beard and the folds of the robe, adding depth to the portrait. In his hands, Macarius holds a prayer book, symbolizing his devout faith and dedication to spiritual life. The book is painted with rich, warm tones of red and brown, standing out against the otherwise muted and somber color palette of the painting. His right hand, delicately holding the prayer beads or chotki, further signifies his constant prayer and meditation. The background of the painting is a simple, dark gradient that subtly shifts from deep gray to black, keeping the focus on the saint without any distractions. This minimalist background enhances the spiritual and contemplative atmosphere of the portrait. This painting of Venerable Macarius of Optina serves as a visual homage to his life and spiritual legacy. The artist captures not only the physical likeness of the saint but also conveys his inner serenity, wisdom, and deep connection to God. The use of light and shadow, along with the careful attention to detail in the facial features and attire, brings a sense of realism and reverence to the piece. The prayer book and beads are significant elements, symbolizing Macarius's devotion to prayer and his role as a spiritual guide. The simplicity of the background ensures that viewers are drawn to the expression and presence of the saint, encouraging contemplation and reflection on their own spiritual journey. "Venerable Macarius of Optina" is a beautifully executed oil painting that honors the memory of a beloved Russian Orthodox saint. Through careful attention to detail, the artist successfully captures the essence of Macarius's piety and wisdom, making it a poignant and inspiring piece for those who view it.

*** ABOUT THIS PAINTING ***
* TITLE: "Venerable Macarius of Optina"
* ARTISTS: Oleksandr Gukalov
* SIZE: 30x40 cm/'11.81x15.74 inches'
* MEDIUM: oil, canvas on cardboard
* HAND PAINTED: Original painting from our collection
* CONDITION: we tried to convey the maximum information with the help of photos about this product

About the artists: Oleksiyander Gukalov
After graduating from Lviv Polytechnic, he was engaged in scientific work. In his free time, he studied the works of Plato, the poetry of the ancient East, and religious works. At this time, resistance to the routine of life and utilitarian science arose in him; he became interested in man and his secrets. Oleksiyander decided to end his engineering career and become a humanitarian. Since 1990, he began to write and publish philosophical poems. Later he decided to devote himself to painting, a passion for which began during his years of study at the Lviv Polytechnic with caricatures and caricatures of classmates and teachers.

Since 2017 he has been painting with oil paints. Oleksiyander does not have a formal art education, but he is convinced that the craft and talent of an artist do not directly depend on professional education. The artist's works are characterized by completeness of composition and depth of meaning. He is not afraid to work with different themes, his paintings are true modern art that touches people. The artist’s portfolio includes landscapes and views of his favorite cities, portraits of pop stars, politicians, athletes, relatives, and animals. “I draw a toga when I feel the need for it. Therefore, I cannot say that I work in some narrow direction. Rather, it is a call from the soul,” the artist says about himself.

Exhibitions

2011 – Personal exhibition, Lutsk

2011 – Exhibition “World of Jazz”, Lutsk

2011 – Exhibition Arts.in.ua, Kiev

2012 – Personal exhibition in the art cafe “Apartment 35”, Lviv

2012 – Personal exhibition “On the Waves of Dreams”, Lutsk

2012 – International exhibition “Plain Air”, West Park Art Gallery, New York

2012 – International competition “Peace, Time and People”, special medal of achievements St. Michael, New York

2012 – Exhibition of artists who were included in the K-Gallery catalogue, Kyiv

2012 – International exhibition-competition of contemporary art “Ukrainian Art Week”, Kyiv

2013 – opening of a permanent exhibition and sale, Lutsk

2013 – Exhibition “Spring Impressions” of the international art project “Vicious Circle of Impressions”, Kiev

2015 – Personal exhibition, Lutsk

2015 – Ukrainian-Italian exhibition “Single Space”, Kyiv

2015 – International art project “New York – Tokyo”, Tokyo

2016 – International art project “Color in Motion”, New York Realism Gallery, first place and Gold medal in the category “Impressionism”, New York

2021 – International exhibition “Art Nest Paris”, Paris