“The Nude Gladiolus” (2025) Original Pencil Drawing by Kateryna Kostyk

“The Nude Gladiolus” is a visual poem of modesty and inner strength. The girl in the artwork is physically exposed, yet delicately veiled by her light hair, symbolizing shyness and tenderness, much like the gladiolus itself. The flower she holds in her mouth represents beauty that comes from within—a reminder that true charm does not need to be displayed, but radiates through natural purity.

Her light hair intertwined with the white gladiolus emphasizes innocence, purity, and gentle grace. This piece invites the viewer to reflect: beauty is not only external, but the harmony of the inner world that makes each person unique.

It is part of the Femina Floris series, a celebration of the intimate dialogue between flowers and the female form. In this series, each flower is projected through the eyes of the artist onto the body and behavior of a woman, creating a symbolic interplay of moods, character, and essence. Every bloom carries its own personality, and the woman associated with it reflects that same spirit—highlighting that just as there are no unattractive flowers, there are no ordinary women.

This collection is dedicated to women at every stage of their journey, embracing individuality, strength, and beauty. Through the harmony of floral symbolism and feminine expression, Femina Floris invites viewers to explore the delicate balance between nature and identity, perception and emotion, art and soul.

Materials used:

graphite pencils, varnish

Details:

• Pencil drawing on Paper
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 70 x 98.5cm (unframed)
• Signed on the front
• Style: Photorealistic
• Subject: Nudes and erotic

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