Zapovit (Testament, or Will & Testament) – Artist’s Statement
Inspired by the poem, Zapovit, by Taras Shevchenko (1814 – 1861) a painter, romantic and poet, the ‘Bard’ is considered the father of the revival of Ukraine’s fight for nationhood. Born into serfdom his freedom was purchased from his master by fellow artists. Though free, Shevchenko was repeatedly exiled and conscripted by Russian authorities for his art and writings. Taras is the beating heart that yearns for freedom and the Ukrainian homeland where he wished to be laid to rest. The poem speaks to the mighty Dnipro River where he wanted to be buried….. so, he could see and hear the mighty river roar. After his death in exile in St. Petersburg, his friends recovered his body and buried him on Taras Hill overlooking the Dnipro River.
“When I die, then make my grave
High on an ancient mound,
In my own beloved Ukraine,
In steppeland without bound :
Whence one may see wide-skirted wheatland,
Dnipro’s steep-cliffed shore,
There whence one may hear the blustering
River wildly roar.

Till from Ukraine to the blue sea
It bears in fierce endeavour
The blood of foemen — then I’ll leave
Wheatland and hills forever:
Leave all behind, soar up until
Before the throne of God
I’ll make my prayer.
For till that hour
I shall know naught of God.

Make my grave there — and arise,
Sundering your chains,
Bless your freedom with the blood
Of foemen’s evil veins!
Then in that great family,
A family new and free,
Do not forget, with good intent
Speak quietly of me.