Ukrainian Cultural Spaces Transformed into Bomb Shelters and Back

Since the onset of the conflict on February 24, 2022, cultural institutions in Ukraine have doubled as bomb shelters while continuing their artistic endeavors. The Yermilov Centre in Kharkiv provided refuge for around 50 individuals, including artist Pavlo Makov, who showcased Ukraine at the 2022 Venice Biennale. This center also facilitated lectures and workshops. Valentina Guk created mosaics from broken glass found at bomb sites. The Kharkiv Municipal Gallery's ARTpidval functions as both a shelter and an exhibition venue. In Kyiv, Voloshyn Gallery offered sanctuary to artists like Nikita Kadan, who curated 'Anxiety (Tryvoha)'. The Dovzhenko Centre held screenings in metro stations, while the 2023 exhibition 'How Are You?' showcased nearly 100 artists. In Lviv, the Lviv Art Center initiated 'Shelter' exhibitions, and Ya Gallery converted its basement into a studio and refuge. IZOLYATSIA continues its work in exile from Kyiv.