Iurii Kutafin (Novan) is a Ukrainian artist whose works are characterized by continuous exploration of a variety of media and themes, including optical illusion, social transformation, and the digital revolution. For over 10 years he has been creating works of street art and blends different artistic disciplines in his creations to respond to the world’s constant cultural shifts. With a background in architecture, he redirected his career to focus on the direct communication of the visual arts.

Novan lives and works in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Adult Toys

Description provided by the artist:

"The painting "Grown-Up Toys" represents a multifaceted and symbolic image in which contemporary children play with modern toys. The boy symbolizes childlike innocence, joy, and play, while the tank represents the harsh reality of war. The painting suggests that children, even in times of war, are capable of resisting cruelty and, even in their fantasies, holding onto hope for peace. They can still preserve a piece of childhood and joy in their lives."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

Alpha and Omega

Description provided by the artist:

"This painting is an allegory of the impact of human beings on nature and the ecosystem. It serves as a reminder of the destruction of natural environments and the threat to wildlife. The tree rings, symbolizing the cycles of life and death in nature, indicate the perpetual renewal and rebirth in the natural world, while the severed legs symbolize the loss of life and the disruption of this cycle. The painting is a critique of human activities that often lead to environmental degradation and the endangerment of certain animal species. It cries out for the importance of preserving and respecting nature and is intended to inspire reflection on our responsibility to Mother Nature."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

Le baguette

Description provided by the artist:

"This painting was created for my friend Tom, who lives in France. His father is a military man who actively supported Ukrainian soldiers and took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation in Eastern Ukraine in 2020. His invaluable assistance as a French citizen is ironically depicted through Stereotypical Mimes with baguettes, which they send to our enemies' positions. I am grateful to him as a person with high moral qualities! And this painting serves as a symbol of resistance and the support provided to us by our Allies!!!"

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

I'm Ukrainka!

Description provided by the artist:

"The heroine of this painting is Lesya Ukrainka, an outstanding Ukrainian poetess and publicist who left a significant mark on Ukrainian culture. Her image in the painting underscores her vital role in the development of Ukrainian literature, national identity, and the strength of women in society. The inscription "Я Украинка" (I am Ukrainian) serves as a significant focal point in this work of art, reminding us of the importance of one's cultural heritage and national origin."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, optical illusion, MTN aerosol paint.

Make love not war

Description provided by the artist:

"The phrase "Make Love Not War" has become a cultural symbol of peace and protest. It calls for the rejection of violence and armed conflicts in favor of love, understanding, and harmony. In this painting, the optical illusion emphasizes the complexity and depth of the message. There are no hidden perspectives or perceptions here. It sends a vibrant and positive message, urging for peace, love, and solidarity."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, optical illusion, MTN aerosol paint.

Piss Off

Description provided by the artist:

"This painting is a provocative and symbolic work that reflects the realities of the military actions in Ukraine and the emotional reactions to them. The image of a boy, as a symbol of the young nation, dressed in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, expresses protest against Russia's occupation, symbolizes national pride, and a determination to defend the sovereignty of their country. The inscription "Piss off" conveys a clear message to the enemy to get off our territory."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

The Statue of Liberty

Description provided by the artist:

"The allegorical statue of liberty, holding a rifle on her shoulder, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and defending freedom. The burning torch in her hand symbolizes the light of knowledge and enlightenment, while the MacBook reflects the impact of modern information technology on freedom and access to information. The work conveys the idea that achieving freedom and equality requires efforts and struggles, both in the realm of information and in the context of military aspects. It encourages viewers to contemplate the significance of these values in their own lives and in the world as a whole. "All lives matter," as stated in the book, but freedom and equality must be earned and defended!"

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

Ukraine starts from you

Description provided by the artist:

"The painting is executed in the style of optical illusion using the colors of the Ukrainian flag. Viacheslav Maksymovych Chernovol, who was a prominent figure in Ukrainian history and is often regarded as a national hero, takes center stage. His phrase, "Ukraine begins with you," is presented in contrasting colors, serving as a call to action for every citizen in the development of Ukraine. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, patriotism, and the contribution of each individual to the creation of a better society."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, optical illusion, MTN aerosol paint.

Yes I vote

Description provided by the artist:

"The monkey holding a rifle may symbolize power and control. The banana is a symbolic gesture of giving, but with the rifle in hand, it becomes a source of threat. The inscription suggests that some voters may feel like they are merely tools in the hands of those in power, and political decisions are made for personal gain, as if someone is playing with them like toys. It also emphasizes the importance of active citizen participation in elections and political life to avoid destructive consequences. Overall, this painting represents a bold and provocative commentary on politics, power, and the role of citizenship in society. It inspires reflection on the importance of active engagement in political life and vigilance regarding those in power. The painting serves as a commentary on society, urging awareness of one's role in the political process." The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.

Unihorse

Description provided by the artist:

"The horse, as a symbol of strength and freedom, is typically associated with grace and might. However, the presence of a gun in the horse's forehead changes these notions into symbols of power and threat. It inevitably raises questions about the very concept of strength, as its interpretation can vary depending on how the viewer perceives the interplay between control, power, and individual freedom."

The technique used: Canvas, stencil, MTN aerosol paint, liquid Black/White marker.