Original artwork description:

This painting explores the multifaceted nature of human society through the symbolism of masks. The central figure, richly adorned and holding a lace fan, peers out through a golden mask—representing the individual's desire to be seen, yet only through a carefully curated facade. Surrounding her are a multitude of other masked faces, each unique in design but equally unreadable—signifying the diverse yet disguised nature of people within a community.

The vibrant palette and ornate costumes reflect the allure and spectacle of social life, where appearance often overshadows authenticity. The sun and moon motifs in the top right corner further emphasize the duality of light and shadow in human interactions—truth and deception, openness and concealment.
The composition suggests a theatrical setting, hinting that society itself can resemble a grand performance in which everyone plays a role, hides behind a mask, and participates in the shared illusion of identity and belonging.
This painting invites viewers to question: What lies behind the mask? And more profoundly—do we even recognize our true selves without it?

Materials used:

oil, canvas, varnish

Tags:
#original oil #love painting #surreal paintings #portrait surrealist #venice carnival #venice mask 

"Love Story! Venice!" (2021) Oil painting
by Yurii Novikov

Star fullStar fullStar fullStar fullStar full 99 Artist Reviews

£550

Loading

Original artwork description
Minus

This painting explores the multifaceted nature of human society through the symbolism of masks. The central figure, richly adorned and holding a lace fan, peers out through a golden mask—representing the individual's desire to be seen, yet only through a carefully curated facade. Surrounding her are a multitude of other masked faces, each unique in design but equally unreadable—signifying the diverse yet disguised nature of people within a community.

The vibrant palette and ornate costumes reflect the allure and spectacle of social life, where appearance often overshadows authenticity. The sun and moon motifs in the top right corner further emphasize the duality of light and shadow in human interactions—truth and deception, openness and concealment.
The composition suggests a theatrical setting, hinting that society itself can resemble a grand performance in which everyone plays a role, hides behind a mask, and participates in the shared illusion of identity and belonging.
This painting invites viewers to question: What lies behind the mask? And more profoundly—do we even recognize our true selves without it?

Materials used:

oil, canvas, varnish

Tags:
#original oil #love painting #surreal paintings #portrait surrealist #venice carnival #venice mask 
14 day money back guaranteeFree returns

14 day money back guaranteeLearn more

5.0

Overall Rating

Based on 99 reviews
5 stars
99
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
0

Visit Yurii Novikov shop

Yurii Novikov

Star fullStar fullStar fullStar fullStar full (99)

Location Ukraine

About
Hello, my name is Yurii Novikov, I'm a professional artist from Ukraine. I was born and studied in Ukraine. Drawing and painting were my favorite childhood activities. In my early years I... Read more

View all