Motanka – Embroidering Tradition
This illustration was created as part of an assignment dedicated to Ukrainian ornamentation.
I chose to depict a motanka – a traditional Ukrainian spirit doll, shown in the process of embroidery.
The patterns are inspired by Central Ukrainian (Naddnipryanshchyna) ornament, performed in the classic color palette of red, black and white, symbolizing strength, life and protection.
I worked in a flat vector style, combining traditional ethnic motifs with modern visual expression.
The rays and dynamic composition emphasize movement and determination, reflecting the resilience deeply rooted in Ukrainian culture.
This piece was created during a very emotional moment for the country — a time when many people had to gather strength once again.
The artwork became a way to channel those feelings into something meaningful and symbolic, instead of letting that heaviness remain unspoken.
On the next slides you can see earlier stages of the work, before reaching the final result.