“Brave to Live”: Political Jewelry Exhibition in Kyiv Highlights Ukrainian Resilience Through Art

Ukrainian war-themed jewellery
Ukrainian war-themed jewellery

In a powerful reflection of Ukraine’s ongoing struggle, a groundbreaking exhibition titled “Brave to Live” is set to open in Kyiv next week.

Running from September 1-4, 2024, this exhibition will be a highlight of Ukrainian Fashion Week’s 55th season, showcasing the intersection of art, politics, and resilience through the medium of contemporary jewelry.

Curated by the LANKA jewelry community, the exhibition features works from 17 Ukrainian artists and has already received international acclaim at events in Munich and Lisbon. Now, it returns home with the support of Sense Bank, offering Ukrainian audiences a unique perspective on life amidst conflict.

“Our goal is to show the importance of art as a cultural diplomacy tool,” said Olga Vinogradova and Kateryna Muzyka, project curators and LANKA founders. The curators emphasized that “Brave to Live” not only introduces Ukrainian audiences to modern political jewelry but also underscores the vital role of culture during wartime.

The pieces on display explore themes of pain, dreams, adaptation, and the indomitable human spirit, serving as tangible expressions of Ukrainian resilience. This innovative approach to jewelry as a political statement is part of a broader trend in the art world, where the lines between craft and commentary are increasingly blurred.

The exhibition’s return to Kyiv is particularly significant given the current context. “We are glad to be a partner of this project and continue to support Ukrainian creators who contribute to the cultural dialogue at the international level,” said Olena Zubchenko, deputy head of Sense Bank’s board. The bank’s support aligns with its strategy of backing creative projects that have significant social and cultural impacts.

The exhibition will be hosted at the ‘Sens on Khreshchatyk’ bookstore, situated in the heart of Kyiv, and is expected to be a focal point for artistic expression and civic engagement. As Ukraine continues to face the realities of war, “Brave to Live” stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to communicate, inspire, and unite in times of crisis.

Designerzcentral