“Art Despite the War”: an Exhibition for the All-Ukrainian Artist’s Day
On September 26, the opening of a regional painting exhibition took place at the Zakarpattia Regional Art Museum named after Yosyp Bokshai. Sixty-five artists, members of the Transcarpathian Organization of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine, presented their works.
The exhibition features various genres, including landscapes, portraits, still lifes, and abstract art. Visitors can explore both classical works created in the style of the Transcarpathian School of Painting and modern artistic trends. Traditionally, the exhibition showcases the creative achievements of both renowned masters and the younger generation of Transcarpathian artists.
A separate section of the exhibition is dedicated to artists who are defending their homeland with weapons in their hands. These artists do not simply document events — they recreate memories of peaceful days and the beauty of the surrounding world, putting a part of their soul into every piece.
Visitors are captivated by the bright landscapes and still lifes of Maksym Plesha, while the urban atmosphere in the works of Ivan Buchmei draws attention. The works of Vasyl Matika stand out for their expressive decorative style, while the art of Mykhailo Khodanych is distinguished by philosophical and plastic compositions. The sacred paintings of Vasyl Telychko-Evert are filled with spirituality and faith. Vasyl Derbal moves viewers with sincere sensitivity, while Ihor Panichev stands out through bold innovative experimentation.
Art critic Olena Prykhodko believes that the exhibited works resonate deeply with visitors because art allows people to find beauty even in difficult times.
“We called the exhibition Art That Lives Despite the War and Brings Victory Closer. It is a symbolic title because the works presented here are not only pieces of Ukraine’s history but also evidence of the trials we are going through. For the artists, this exhibition is a form of art therapy that helps them relax. Art allows us to find beauty where it is very difficult to do so.
The artists are very different in their preferences and worldviews, but together they prove that art continues to live — it inspires and motivates us. Here you can see not only documentary depictions but also other works, including portraits of fellow soldiers created by Vasyl Telychko-Evert. Artists do not lose their vision of the world and inspire us to believe in peaceful days.”
Soldier and artist Vasyl Telychko-Evert creates his works on the front line. He is the author of a graphic series titled Diary. He presented part of his creative work at the exhibition:
“Art for me is life — I do not separate it from myself. We arranged a military chapel, and whenever I have free time, I make sketches there. I work on sacred themes. Now my favorite places have taken on a completely different meaning. During the war, many things have changed, especially transporting materials, so I work with whatever is available — a piece of wood or other materials at hand.”
Most visitors agree on one thing — the exhibition is diverse and truly captivating. Visitor Kseniia Dodonova shared her impressions of the event:
“As a beginner artist, it was incredibly interesting for me to visit the exhibition and see the works of different artists. There were many paintings, and all of them were different, yet each one touched me in some way. Some did not leave a strong impression, but most are truly worth attention — you want to keep looking at them. The most fascinating works are those where the longer you observe them, the more details you notice. The exhibition is definitely worth visiting because it features wonderful paintings that should be seen.”
Each artist tried to express their inner world and emotions through their work. Visitors can explore the exhibition until October 14.
It is also worth noting that paintings are displayed at the Zakarpattia Regional Art Museum named after Yosyp Bokshai, while graphic works and decorative art pieces can be viewed at Uzhhorod Art Gallery.
