The exhibition, which took place on 06 October 2024, presented a powerful insight into Ukrainian art as a form of resistance during Russia's ongoing war of aggression. The event featured works by the Ukrainian artists Anna Ivchenko, Anna Zvyahintseva, Maria Kozyrenko, Masha Vyshedsky and Simona, many of whom channel their experiences of physical and psychological destruction into their creations. These artworks were accompanied by recordings of quotes taken from conversations with the artists, adding a personal and emotional dimension to the pieces on display.

Click here to listen to the quotes from the interviews.

Organized by students from the Institute of East European Studies (Talitha Szallies, Elena Medvedev, Henriette Pesch, Anonym) the exhibition showcased the organizers’ dedication to exploring how art can serve as a source of strength and renewal in the face of war. Their work highlighted how artistic creation becomes a means of survival, offering hope and light during the darkest times.

A key focus of the exhibition was the role of women, particularly their often-overlooked contributions during the war. While men typically take up arms on the frontlines, women play a central role in maintaining societal stability, both within Ukraine and abroad, by taking on crucial roles in civil society. The exhibition emphasized how women use art to preserve and promote Ukrainian cultural identity, transforming their creative work into a form of resistance against Russian aggression.

Through their thoughtful curation, the organizers have created a space that stands as a testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people, particularly women, whose voices and contributions are critical in the fight for Ukraine’s cultural and national survival. The exhibition invited reflection on the enduring power of art as a symbol of hope, survival, and resistance against imperialist violence.