Pannochka – The Tragic Spirit of Viy
Illustration by Ula Patoka | Ukrainian Operatic Arias | Viy by Mykhailo Verykivsky (1946)
This illustration by Ula Patoka was created for Pannochka’s aria from Viy—a 1946 Ukrainian opera by Mykhailo Verykivsky, based on the chilling 1835 novella by Nikolai Gogol. The artwork is part of the Anthology of Ukrainian Operatic Arias by UCVP.
Pannochka embodies the tragic intersection of innocence, suffering, and supernatural fate. In Verykivsky’s operatic adaptation, she is a young woman whose untimely death and restless spirit confront human cruelty and the mysteries of the beyond. Her haunting presence, both vulnerable and otherworldly, captures the tension between mortality and the supernatural—a central theme in Ukrainian folklore and the Gothic tradition.
Patoka’s illustration transforms Pannochka’s story into a visually striking composition. The young woman stands before a mirror, her reflection revealing the terrifying figure of an old witch, while shadowy chorty (demons) swirl within the solemn interior of an Orthodox church. A coffin anchors the scene, evoking the opera’s dramatic interplay of life, death, and the supernatural. The work blends Slavic Gothic atmosphere with folkloric symbolism, bringing the haunting narrative vividly to life.
This evocative print is perfect for lovers of classical music, Ukrainian folklore, Gothic art, and literary-inspired illustrations. It complements eclectic, Gothic, historically inspired, or music-focused interiors, home libraries, studios, and creative spaces. It also makes a meaningful and unforgettable gift for opera enthusiasts, art collectors, or anyone drawn to darkly beautiful, culturally rich imagery.
Giclée print of drawing.
Made to order, ships in 2-3 working days.
Printed on Premium Museum-Quality Matte Paper (230 gsm/Sustainable/Ethically Sourced), producing sharp, crisp, and vibrant image reproduction, with great density and vivid colors for a true quality piece of art.
Available in different sizes.
WORLDWIDE FREE SHIPPING
Delivered in a tube for durable delivery.
Please allow 10–20 business days for deliveries outside the US.
► PLEASE NOTE
• By default, the art goes all the way to the edge of the print, unless shown framed by a border in the mockup photos. If you would like to add custom white borders, please contact me.
• Colors may vary from screen to print. Any blur or grain on the image is intentional.
• For personal use only.
• Not to be resold.
• Art has Ula Patoka’s signature.
• Copyright remains with the illustrator.
Designed and printed in the USA | UpIllustration LLC
Pannochka – The Tragic Spirit of Viy
Illustration by Ula Patoka | Ukrainian Operatic Arias | Viy by Mykhailo Verykivsky (1946)
This illustration by Ula Patoka was created for Pannochka’s aria from Viy—a 1946 Ukrainian opera by Mykhailo Verykivsky, based on the chilling 1835 novella by Nikolai Gogol. The artwork is part of the Anthology of Ukrainian Operatic Arias by UCVP.
Pannochka embodies the tragic intersection of innocence, suffering, and supernatural fate. In Verykivsky’s operatic adaptation, she is a young woman whose untimely death and restless spirit confront human cruelty and the mysteries of the beyond. Her haunting presence, both vulnerable and otherworldly, captures the tension between mortality and the supernatural—a central theme in Ukrainian folklore and the Gothic tradition.
Patoka’s illustration transforms Pannochka’s story into a visually striking composition. The young woman stands before a mirror, her reflection revealing the terrifying figure of an old witch, while shadowy chorty (demons) swirl within the solemn interior of an Orthodox church. A coffin anchors the scene, evoking the opera’s dramatic interplay of life, death, and the supernatural. The work blends Slavic Gothic atmosphere with folkloric symbolism, bringing the haunting narrative vividly to life.
This evocative print is perfect for lovers of classical music, Ukrainian folklore, Gothic art, and literary-inspired illustrations. It complements eclectic, Gothic, historically inspired, or music-focused interiors, home libraries, studios, and creative spaces. It also makes a meaningful and unforgettable gift for opera enthusiasts, art collectors, or anyone drawn to darkly beautiful, culturally rich imagery.
Giclée print of drawing.
Made to order, ships in 2-3 working days.
Printed on Premium Museum-Quality Matte Paper (230 gsm/Sustainable/Ethically Sourced), producing sharp, crisp, and vibrant image reproduction, with great density and vivid colors for a true quality piece of art.
Available in different sizes.
WORLDWIDE FREE SHIPPING
Delivered in a tube for durable delivery.
Please allow 10–20 business days for deliveries outside the US.
► PLEASE NOTE
• By default, the art goes all the way to the edge of the print, unless shown framed by a border in the mockup photos. If you would like to add custom white borders, please contact me.
• Colors may vary from screen to print. Any blur or grain on the image is intentional.
• For personal use only.
• Not to be resold.
• Art has Ula Patoka’s signature.
• Copyright remains with the illustrator.
Designed and printed in the USA | UpIllustration LLC
