Original artwork description:

FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Due to the war, russia started against my country, the international delivery can take about two to three weeks.

About the artwork

In “Lovers,” I continue my exploration of queer identity through the visual vocabulary of Cubism, deeply inspired by the groundbreaking works of Pablo Picasso. This painting portrays two intertwined male figures whose fragmented, mask-like faces symbolize the complexities and hidden realities of queer love.

The masks represent the defensive barriers often constructed in response to societal prejudice and the threat of rejection or hostility. Beneath these symbolic masks lie tenderness, vulnerability, and genuine connection—emotions that remain concealed, carefully guarded against external judgment. Through bold brushstrokes and deep, resonant colors, I emphasize the tension between the powerful intimacy of the lovers and the oppressive weight of societal expectations.

My intention with “Lovers” is to affirm the profound courage required to love openly in a society where such love is frequently marginalized. By invoking Picasso’s Cubist fragmentation, the painting underscores both the struggle and resilience of queer relationships, advocating for authenticity, visibility, and acceptance. It is a call to challenge harmful stereotypes, celebrate queer affection, and envision a future where love no longer needs to hide behind masks.

PLEASE NOTE: The buyer will be responsible for paying international customs fees, determined by the country the artwork is being shipped to. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to making a purchase.

Materials used:

Oil on Canvas

Tags:
#picasso #male nude #love #cubism #gay #queer #identity #pride #male body #male beauty #homoerotic #lgbtq+ 

Lovers (2025) Oil painting
by Oleksandr Balbyshev

Star fullStar fullStar fullStar fullStar full 48 Artist Reviews

£3,412.37 Alert

Loading

Original artwork description
Minus

FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Due to the war, russia started against my country, the international delivery can take about two to three weeks.

About the artwork

In “Lovers,” I continue my exploration of queer identity through the visual vocabulary of Cubism, deeply inspired by the groundbreaking works of Pablo Picasso. This painting portrays two intertwined male figures whose fragmented, mask-like faces symbolize the complexities and hidden realities of queer love.

The masks represent the defensive barriers often constructed in response to societal prejudice and the threat of rejection or hostility. Beneath these symbolic masks lie tenderness, vulnerability, and genuine connection—emotions that remain concealed, carefully guarded against external judgment. Through bold brushstrokes and deep, resonant colors, I emphasize the tension between the powerful intimacy of the lovers and the oppressive weight of societal expectations.

My intention with “Lovers” is to affirm the profound courage required to love openly in a society where such love is frequently marginalized. By invoking Picasso’s Cubist fragmentation, the painting underscores both the struggle and resilience of queer relationships, advocating for authenticity, visibility, and acceptance. It is a call to challenge harmful stereotypes, celebrate queer affection, and envision a future where love no longer needs to hide behind masks.

PLEASE NOTE: The buyer will be responsible for paying international customs fees, determined by the country the artwork is being shipped to. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to making a purchase.

Materials used:

Oil on Canvas

Tags:
#picasso #male nude #love #cubism #gay #queer #identity #pride #male body #male beauty #homoerotic #lgbtq+ 
14 day money back guaranteeFree returns

14 day money back guaranteeLearn more

4.9

Overall Rating

Based on 48 reviews
5 stars
47
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
1

Visit Oleksandr Balbyshev shop

Oleksandr Balbyshev

Star fullStar fullStar fullStar fullStar full (48)

Location Ukraine

About
Oleksandr Balbyshev was born in 1985 in Ukraine, one of the biggest Soviet Republics. After graduating from The Prydniprovska State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture in 2012, he was... Read more

View all