Narbut was one of the most important Ukrainian graphic artists of the early twentieth century. Once Ivan Yakovlevich Bilibin's prize pupil, he became a distinguished book illustrator in his own right, developing a unique style known as Ukrainian Baroque. He illustrated over 50 books and contributed to many periodicals including Apollon [Apollo], Nashe mynule [Our Past], Zori [Stars] and Sontse truda [The Sun of Labor]. His work was included in major group exhibitions in Russia, France and Germany and was awarded a gold medal in Leipzig for his artistic achievements.