MEANS OF VISUALIZING MYTHOLOGICAL CHARACTERS OF SLAVIC CULTURE IN BOOK ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE FIRST QUARTER OF THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

Purpose. To analyze stylistic differences in the depiction of mythological characters of Slavic culture in book illustrations of the first quarter of the 21st century and to determine the priority of schematic, stylized, or realistic approaches to their representation, taking into account current trends in graphic design and visual communication. The study aims to identify the features of artistic interpretation of traditional images within the context of contemporary cultural processes and the transformation of mythological heritage in the modern information environment. Methodology. The research methodology is based on the theoretical analysis of scholarly sources addressing the visualization of mythological images, as well as the application of systemic-structural, comparative, formal-stylistic, and semiotic approaches. The use of a comprehensive methodology enabled a thorough analysis of artistic solutions, compositional principles, and stylistic techniques. A detailed analysis of the illustrations from the 2022 publication Field Notes of a Ukrainian Demonologist was conducted, which made it possible to examine the specific features of visual interpretation of mythological characters, the peculiarities of their plastic representation, symbolic content, and the nature of their figurative transformations. Results. Illustrations of mythological characters and the stylistic differences in their depiction were examined and analyzed, allowing the identification of the most effective stylistic and technical methods of visualization. It was established that stylistic solutions play a key role in shaping the visual image of Slavic mythological characters in contemporary culture. Despite its expressiveness, level of detail, and aspiration for naturalistic accuracy, the realistic approach does not always ensure the full transmission of the deep symbolic meaning of myth. In contrast, stylized imagery proves to be a more effective tool of visual communication, as it facilitates the generalization of form, enhances the symbolic character of the image, activates the viewer’s associative thinking, and enables the organic adaptation of mythological motifs to the contemporary cultural context. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive substantiation of the advantages of image-transformed stylized representations over realistic and schematic methods of representation, as well as in demonstrating their effectiveness in promoting ethnocultural traditions, preserving mythological symbolism, and supporting cultural diversity in the modern visual environment. Practical significance. The results of the study can be used by illustrators and designers for the effective development of design solutions and for the rational adaptation of Slavic mythological characters in contemporary Ukrainian book illustration.