In Vladyslav Riaboshtan’s works, the central figures are cities, subways, railways, and scenes reflecting the harsh realities of war. Among these, the subway takes on a particularly nuanced role. The artist delves into its multifaceted essence—not just as a means of urban transportation, but also as a refuge offering safety in wartime, or as an underground labyrinth with winding paths, reminiscent of the Labyrinth of the Minotaur.

The defining element of the subway series lies in its visual interpretation. In some instances, the imagery echoes the style of graffiti, while in others, the artist stimulates the imagination by portraying the subway as a surreal, dreamlike realm. Though reality informs the narratives of his canvases, Riaboshtan’s distinctive artistic perspective elevates them into compelling visual stories.