Ihor Piddubnyi
Ihor Piddubnyi
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Paul of Tartus

AVAIlABLE here

60×50 cm, oil on canvas

The drama of the life of Paul of Tarsus, a true Pharisee (his name at birth was Shaul, which became Saul – because the Greeks did not pronounce the “sh” sound, and as a citizen of Rome – Paulus, which in Latin means “small” or “lesser”) consisted in his transformation from a persecutor into one of the most devoted followers of Christianity. His facial features are clearly outlined, but at the same time seem a little blurry – this is the complexity of his character, internal conflict, search for truth and the path from hatred to love; this is deep knowledge of the Scriptures and Jewish tradition, steadfastness in suffering and flexibility of mind. Paul died as a true Jew – without renouncing his words at the cost of his life. His mission could be summarized in his own words: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7). His vague mosaic image is a personal space that everyone complements with their perception and emotions.