Paintings by a Kherson artist were discovered in occupied Crimea
The Kherson Art Museum has documented new instances of cultural property being looted by Russian occupiers.
Thanks to a chance photo from Crimea, two works by artist Yegor Tolkunov were identified and are being illegally exhibited in Simferopol.
This was reported with reference to the press service of the Kherson Art Museum.
In one of the recent photos from the Central Museum of Tavrida, two works by the Kherson artist were recognized at once—“Self-Portrait” (1987) and “Foundry” (1980). The photo was taken in March 2026 during a visit by representatives of the occupying “Ministry of Culture.”
Yegor Tolkunov (1943–2018) is considered one of Kherson’s most prominent artists. His work spans portraiture, landscape, still life, and abstraction, and his style is characterized by a restrained palette, profound psychological depth, and a subtle sense of light.
“The artist’s works are easily recognizable by their restrained palette, deep psychological insight, and elegant combination of light and melancholy,” the museum noted.
As the museum noted, the artist’s “Self-Portrait” possesses a special emotional depth—the artist is depicted from behind, in a state of inner concentration, which underscores his connection to his art and nature.
“In Tolkunov’s work, this is one of many images in which he depicts himself at work, emphasizing the artist’s inseparable connection with the surrounding world. Although the face is visible only in profile, the figure’s pose against the backdrop of an endless snow-covered expanse eloquently conveys deep concentration, inner strength, and absolute dedication to his craft,” note the museum curators.
“The Foundry” demonstrates another facet of his talent—the ability to reinterpret industrial themes, going beyond the boundaries of Socialist Realism while maintaining artistic independence.
“The artist’s reputation was based on his uncompromising nature: he painted as he felt, not as the canons of Socialist Realism demanded. As a result, instead of cold pathos, we see the lively atmosphere of the factory,” experts note.
The museum emphasized that every identified work is crucial evidence for international courts and another step toward the return of cultural treasures to Ukraine. The work to locate and document the stolen artworks continues.
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