Holy Icon

"Gavrilo Princip: A Portrait of Resolve," acrylic on canvas, Bishop Maxim, 2023

In this evocative portrait, Gavrilo Princip emerges as a figure of unwavering dedication, the artist skillfully blending the turmoil of revolution with a calm sincerity. Princip’s countenance is portrayed with gentle strokes, imbuing him with a kindness that encourages viewers to see the revolutionary through empathetic eyes rather than passing judgment. The backdrop, a deep shade of red, stands not as a stark reminder of violence but symbolizes a complex blend of martyrdom, fervent passion for his cause, and the turbulent backdrop of his life. It engulfs him not as a symbol of violence but as a representation of the sacrifices and consequences borne from his unwavering commitment. Most compelling is Princip’s gaze—a silent narrative of determination. It neither harbors malice nor regret but resonates with profound sincerity. His eyes, delicately depicted by the artist, fixate on a distant yet imminent horizon—a testament to a man prepared to sacrifice everything for the love of his homeland.