Portrait of Volodymyr Zelensky

Portrait illustration (acrylic, spray paint and oils on canvas)

Artist, Illustrator: John Potter - Escape Key Graphics

This painting is a portrait of Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy, sixth president of Ukraine. He was elected in 2019. Presently there is a war in Ukraine triggered by Russia invading Ukraine. I have been very touched by the stern resolve of the Ukrainian people in the face of a formidable adversary. History is still unfolding at this time and depending on what happens this painting may seem to have a different meaning in the future. At the time I made the painting I mainly wanted to convey the feeling of immense pressure this man must be under. He has no previous political or military experience and yet he faces immense challenges in both categories.

This is the first in a series of paintings exploring the use of custom linear halftones which is the fancy title for the black lines in this painting.

The flag area and black lines are acrylic resin spray paint. The realistic part of the portrait is acrylic and some oil paint. The flag area has both a visual and a separate physical texture. This is one reason photographs don’t do this painting full justice. The initial sketch was based on several photos to create a unique
facial expression.