Ukrainian Art Show: artists` reflection on the war

Оn April 13-15 Ukrainian artists held an exhibition in Evanston  Art Center. It was an exposition on war, love, and nationality as a reaction to the political unrest in Ukraine.  According to the organizer, Liza Vetyuhova, Ukrainian Art Show is an expression of emotions on the Ukrainian war from 5 different artists. Each uses art as an outlet to express their individual feelings and unique circumstances. The variety of styles and colors brought life and personality to the exhibit which ultimately raised over $250 (to be donated to Ukrainian Women in Business for the orphans of the war).

When talking about this project Lisa allows herself to show her sincere emotions. "Maidan sparked up feelings of emotional anguish and incredible patriotism but it also left me feeling completely helpless. Living in the United States while everything else was going on back home tore me apart and for 3 years I carried that energy until the opportunity to do this exhibit popped up. In the Integrated Global Studies School program at New Trier High School, we are expected to reach out and make an impact on our community during the second semester and the only thing I could think of was giving Ukrainians a voice on the topic. Having only spoken face to face with my close family and friends about the conflict, I was curious to find out how other Ukrainians felt. My grandfather - Oleksandr Luzhansky - was my main influence in the process of organizing this art exhibit. His impressionist style of painting and strong white ceramic sculptures were always a sign of reassurance as a child, that I was home. He introduced me to the beauty of Ukrainian art, the history behind it, and without him, the idea for the Ukrainian Art Show would never have formed in my mind. Images of heartbroken families, injured soldiers, and destroyed towns flashed every week on “1+1”, opening my eyes to a new kind of reality. A reality that hit home really hard and made my blood boil. A reality that makes me wake up every morning and keep fighting until justice is served." Ivan Trava, Talia Prilutsky, Oleksandr Luzhansky, Yulia Osyka and Kateryna Tkachenko took part in this exhibition.