UKRAINIAN FUTURE

 

Son, Make the World Better Place, 1988 –

Ivan-Valentyn Zadorozhny. (b, 1921 in Rzhyshchiv, Ukraine)

We must safeguard the cultural heritage in Ukraine, as a testimony of the past but also as a catalyst for peace and cohesion for the future, which the international community has a duty to protect and preserve. 

(Audrey Azoulay   UNESCO Director-General, at the start of the Russian invasion.)

Ukraine is a country with a vast cultural heritage. But this rich cultural history is now at risk. All through the war, Ukrainians have tried to remove art pieces to safer ground.  Reminiscent of WWII?  Putin's recent assertions that the country is historically and culturally part of Russia have led to fears that his military may seek to destroy examples of Ukraine's unique artistic traditions.

Much has already been lost or destroyed. Museums in the homes of folk artists and folk production are found throughout the country. One such museum in the village of Ivankiv, not far from Kyiv,  was destroyed in a fire. It housed many works by one of the most loved folk artists, Maria Pryimachenko, which are now lost forever.  A  village man saved 25 of her paintings. She is considered to be an icon of Ukrainian national identity.

 With news of the Ivankiv museum attack spreading quickly around the world, overseas activists and arts organizations have been looking to publicize Maria’s  work as an act of solidarity. Her 1982 painting "A Dove Has Spread Her Wings and Asks for Peace”  is a symbol of hope for the country.

The severity of the damage to Ukraine’s cultural inheritance in other parts of the country, is yet to be assessed.