In Memento mori, Elena Burykina transforms a chance encounter at the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s armor collection into a compelling meditation on history, craftsmanship, and mortality. Each painting in this series draws from an actual historical helmet or suit of armor, reimagined through Burykina’s distinctive color work and bold brushstrokes.

The collection invites viewers to consider the stories these objects might tell, from their role as protective gear in battle to their status as treasured symbols of power and prestige.

Through rich textures and precise observation, Burykina captures both the artistry of the armor and the presence of those who once wore it, reminding us of the human narratives woven into every artifact.