The pomegranate of Persephone, 2026

Olha Symonenko  

At the center of the composition, three ripe pomegranates are positioned, one of which is split open to reveal its precious clusters of ruby grains. Through this imagery, a shift of focus occurs from the external form of the fruit to its deep inner essence. The pomegranate becomes a powerful symbol: from the mythological "Vow of Persephone" that bridges different worlds, to a sacred source of fertility and eternal rebirth. In the painting technique, it was essential to convey the very concept of vibration. While the fruits are rendered with almost tactile lusciousness, the background dissolves into dynamic vertical drips of turquoise, coral, and soft orange tones. This contrast between the structured form of the fruit and the fluidity of the surroundings helps visualize the resonance between living matter and the infinite energy of nature. This work serves as a reminder that even in moments of stillness, the life within us is ready to burst forth in a tumultuous bloom — we only need to wait for our spring.