Satyr and Bacchae (diptych)

Sergey Poznansky's diptych "Satyr and Bacchae" is an interpretation of ancient Greek characters traditionally associated with fun and celebration. However, in the author's works, these characters come alive in a dark and terrifying context.

The photographs differ from typical interpretations of ancient Greek characters in that they are taken against a neutral background. This was the artist's idea, allowing the viewer to focus on the emotions conveyed by the characters.

Satyr, according to Greek mythology, is a demi-god with goat legs and horns. He is depicted on the right side of the diptych, looking into the distance as if contemplating the destruction and chaos surrounding him.

Bacchae, on the other hand, is the goddess of festivities and wine, traditionally depicted as a woman adorned with grape leaves and grape clusters. She is portrayed on the left half of the diptych, standing in contrast to Satyr. Bacchae appears sad and melancholic, looking at the viewer with deep sorrow in her eyes.

Overall, the diptych "Satyr and Bacchae" is the author's commentary on the near future. Created on the eve of the war between Ukraine and Russia in November 2021, it depicts the horror and sadness that soon followed. Poznansky's works not only visualize fear and anxiety, but also warn the viewer of what awaits us if we do not take measures to prevent war and violence in the future.

It is worth noting that this project is a continuation of the "Masks" project that the author shot three years earlier. It continues the exploration of the theme of human emotions and states in various contexts.

Sergey Poznansky uses an original technique of transferring transfer paper onto watercolor paper with a substrate of golden potalla, which allows him to combine digital technologies with traditional artistic techniques. Thanks to this technique, the author's works are particularly expressive and original.