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I began this series of paintings and drawings after the Kremlin started its so-called ‘Military Operation.’

My parents spent their earlier years in Ukraine; 1900 ‘til about 1939.

During the Hitler years they were relocated to  Germany where I was born in 1946.

In 1949 we migrated to Australia and during my entire childhood I heard endless horror stories about Ukraine and Russia.

My parents are long gone now but their narrative still haunts me.

On the 24th of Feb when Vladimir Putin sent his military forces into Ukraine I had no choice but to devote the next 10 months to producing paintings and drawings in response to the war.

I’m glad my parents aren’t here to witness the tragedy in Ukraine. They would have been devastated.

 

I’ve chosen the title of  ‘Dogs of War’ for the exhibition from the play  ‘Julius Caesar.’

 

And Caesar’s spirit, raging for revenge,

With Ate by his side come hot from hell,

Shall in these confines with a monarch’s voice

Cry “Havoc!” and let slip the dogs of war,

That this foul deed shall smell above the earth

With carrion men, groaning for burial.

                             …….William Shakespeare

 

                                                  Stan Korytnyj 2022