On September 22, first- and second-year undergraduate students majoring in “Modeling, Design and Artistic Decoration of Light Industry Products” and “Design and Technology of Garments”, together with curators Halyna Oliynyk and Yana Mamchenko, and with the participation of members of the student scientific club “Art and Fashion: A Creative Look at Designing”, visited the art project “Vichni.UA: Journey from the Past to the Future”.
The project unites history, modernity, and mythology, illustrating how cultural archetypes find new expression in contemporary Ukrainians and highlighting the resilience and unity of society in times of war. The exhibition presents 14 images of Slavic gods and mythological characters created by Iryna iSky, an artist and servicemember of the 59th Separate Assault Brigade named after Yakiv Hanzyuk. Through her creative vision and personal life experience, the artist reinterprets these mythological figures, giving them renewed meaning in today’s context.
Students became acquainted with handmade works created through upcycling, combining both old and modern materials, as well as military elements that symbolize the memory of warrior-defenders. They were particularly impressed by the detail and symbolism of the images: each costume conveyed the character and spirit of a specific historical period or figure, creating a strong sense of immersion in the past.
The information provided for each art object was highly informative. In particular, the description of each character was connected with a modern figure – a soldier, an artist, or a cultural representative. The exhibition’s characters absorbed the strength of these people but were intentionally left without faces, emphasizing that values are not tied to individuals but belong to our shared culture.
The combination of modern multimedia technologies with profound historical meanings left the greatest impression on the visitors. Each exhibit encouraged reflection on what makes the Ukrainian nation eternal – its memory, culture, and indomitable spirit.
The visit to the art project “Vichni.UA” was not only a cultural event for the students but also an important educational experience. The combination of historical traditions, symbolism, and modern technologies enabled them to gain a deeper understanding of the role of art and costume design in preserving national memory and shaping a new Ukrainian identity. For future specialists in the light industry, this meeting became a source of inspiration and an example of how costume and artistic decoration can be used to convey ideas that remain timeless.
Ukraine was, is, and will be! Together to victory!
07.10.2025
