2026
25×35 cm
oil on canvas
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Klava
2025
50х70 cm
oil on canvas
At first glance, she was just an ordinary farm bird, but in reality, she was a beloved companion. She lived alongside people and had a personality of her own, with her own habits and her own little world. Klava was not merely part of the backyard; she could surprise, entertain, and even gently keep the other pets in line.
Through this image, I wanted to convey an important idea: we are accustomed to giving our attention and affection to cats, dogs, and other “traditional” pets, yet the animals that share our yards and farms can also become cherished friends. They, too, are capable of trust, tenderness, and a sense of belonging.
This painting is a reminder that the world of animals around us is far richer than we often imagine. It invites us to reflect on the fact that every living creature, even one as familiar and ordinary as a chicken, can feel care, respond to kindness, and become part of a family’s story. Klava is a symbol of this simple yet profound truth.
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The Cat Who Will Wait
2025
80×100 cm
oil on canvas
This piece has evoked different emotions in everyone — I’m sure of that. That’s why I didn’t immediately share my thoughts about it. It is one of the paintings from the series “Animals of Kharkiv” (yes, more works are coming). It depicts a cat waiting for its family on the other side of the window (yes, it might not be obvious at first, but he’s in great company with pigeons outside).
Unfortunately, since 2022, Kharkiv (and likely other cities) has seen a significant increase in stray animals who need our attention and help. That’s why I have two former homeless cats living with me at home. And that’s why I admire people who feed animals on the streets — there are many such kind people around me. Moreover, my workplace even held an event dedicated to feeding animals in winter.
I sincerely believe that every animal will either wait for or find their person.
I was inspired to create this piece by a ginger beauty who went for a walk and patiently waited to be let back inside — so no cats were harmed during the making of this painting.
However, this work gained an even deeper meaning for me when the house depicted in it was damaged on June 7th during a massive attack on the city.
Viktoriia Kovalenko 