The Winter Spirit - Khyhyn Khotun (Yakutian folklore)

It was my entry artwork for a MUUS USTAR festival, that has been hosted in my hometown for three years by now.
This year I had managed to get picked for an exposure for the first time in these three years!

Khyhyn Khotun (not sure if it is a correct spelling of it in English xd) - is a spirit of a harsh winter, and she comes from yakutian folklore. The winter here, in Republic of Sakha Yakutia is indeed, very harsh and was always viewed by older generations as a powerful entity that should be feared and praised. However, it doesn't mean that it is evil. Yakutian people still were able to find s charm in it.

She doesn't have her own exact description in folklor eyet, as she is a pretty young entity, compared to such characters as Chyyskhan and A Bull of Coldness. So, everyone who chose her as a topic for an art were given a lot of freedom in designing her.

My idea was to convey through her image what winter in Yakutia feels like. It is harsh, strong, it is overwhelming (it lasts for 7-8 months!). That's why she reminds a bit of a goddess, despite being a spirit. Half of her body is made of ice - she is a one being with the nature. (took ice sculptures as an insiration - this also is supposed to convey an idea of her being a work of art from nature). In the middle of her hands is placed a Tuimaada land. This land is pretty big, but compared to her - it is totally in her control!