Sound of resilience

Curated by Björn Geldhof, From Ukraine: Dare to Dream confronts the brutal realities of war while offering a vision of resilience and hope. Ran from April 20 to August 1, 2024, at Palazzo Contarini Polignac as part of the Venice Biennale, this exhibition featured 22 artists and collectives presented by the PinchukArtCentre, who challenge the world to dream of a future beyond destruction. Now Future Generation Art Prize exhibition opens from 4th October at the PinchukArtCentre. The exhibition will feature newly commissioned works by this editions’ 21 shortlisted artists and marking the 15th anniversary of the prize.

hube: From Ukraine: Dare to Dream is described as both a challenge and a call to action. Could you discuss the intended impact or message you hope to convey to visitors?

Björn Geldhof: For the past two years, much of our focus has been on Ukraine. The conversations we’ve had were important, not only for Ukrainians but for the world. However, we were often asked, ‘Why does Ukraine hold such a special position? Why is so much attention given to Ukraine?’ This exhibition acknowledges that if we speak about Ukraine, we must also address the global context. Discussing Ukraine doesn’t only mean talking about the horrors of war – it’s about the potential to dream, to envision a future beyond the immediate crises. Ukraine becomes a starting point for connecting stories, listening to others, and imagining possibilities for change in a world constantly grappling with crisis after crisis.

h: The exhibition features works from 22 artists and collectives. How did you select these artists and what criteria did you consider in curating the exhibition? Could you please tell us more about the artists and their collaborative efforts? 

BG: The exhibition was co-curated by my colleagues and me. Our focus was on artists whose themes resonated with Ukraine, but not exclusively. Many of the artists work in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, or Latin America, and while their subject matter is essential to their own contexts, it also holds significance for us. It was vital for us to connect with their stories, as we believe that through listening to others, we can gain a better understanding of our place in the world. The selected artists shared challenges and dreams with us, fostering a two-way dialogue. While we learn from them, we also offer something of value in return. This exchange was at the heart of the curation.

h: How do the chosen artworks reflect the unique cultural identity and resilience of Ukrainian artists amidst challenging circumstances and the war?

BG: Ukrainian artists possess a remarkable ability to remain self-critical, even under the most difficult circumstances. This capacity for critical reflection, especially in times of peril, is both a democratic value and a testament to their resilience. It’s a quality evident in almost every piece created by Ukrainian artists in this exhibition. Their work reflects not only their identity but also their openness to dialogue with artists from different parts of the world. This shared ability to critically reflect allows them to connect deeply with others, despite starting from different concerns and experiences.

h: How can art serve as a tool for healing and resilience in Ukrainian communities directly impacted by war? What impact do you hope this project will have, both within Ukraine and on the global stage, in terms of raising awareness about Ukrainian art and the realities of life in war-affected regions?

BG: One thing I’ve learned from working in Ukraine is that cultural institutions play a crucial role when society is under threat. People want to live, to breathe, to think beyond the immediate danger. Art and culture provide that oxygen. When we reopened in June 2022, we were amazed by the vast crowds engaging with the art – it gave them a chance to feel and imagine again. Art, like oxygen to the brain, keeps the mind fresh and resilient. While investments in healthcare and defence are undeniably important, investing in culture is equally vital. Culture defends identity, ensuring that even in times of attack, people remain connected to their true selves. Exhibitions like this remind the international audience that Ukraine’s culture is a fundamental part of European history. It generates support not only by showcasing the stark realities of war but also by emphasising the rich cultural contributions of Ukraine to Europe and the world.

h: How has your perception of the power of art changed over the course of the last two years? 

BG: My belief in the transformative power of art has intensified. I’ve always felt that art has the capacity to inspire change, but what I’ve witnessed in Ukraine over the past two years has strengthened that conviction. Art touches people in profound ways, and I’ve seen firsthand how it plays a crucial role in helping communities heal and envision a future, even amidst the devastation of war. This has only deepened my commitment to supporting artists and their work.

h: How might the promotion of Ukrainian art contribute to a sense of collective identity and national pride?

BG: There’s an immense desire among Ukrainians to understand and define their identity, especially in the context of decades of Russian oppression, including the suppression of the Ukrainian language and culture during Soviet times. Art and culture play a critical role in this process, but not in a simplistic way. Good art refuses easy answers. Ukrainian artists are grappling with complex questions about identity, history, and how to reclaim their narrative in light of the country’s Soviet past. This critical reflection is vital for Ukraine’s future, ensuring that the country remains open and connected to the world while developing a nuanced understanding of its own identity.

h: As someone immersed in the vibrant cultural scene of Kyiv, how do you envision the role of artists and cultural institutions in advocating for social justice and human rights?

BG: Ukrainian artists have always been vocal advocates for justice, even when it means speaking out against popular opinion or at personal risk. Their courage isn’t seen as bravery – it’s simply who they are. This critical eye on society, even in times of war, is fundamental to their practice. They continue to address issues of injustice in their work, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.

h: What opportunities do you see for collaboration and exchange between Ukrainian artists and their counterparts around the world, and how might these connections amplify the voices of those affected by the war in Ukraine?

BG: There are two key elements to this. First, European institutions must systematically invest in Ukrainian art – it’s part of European history and culture, and ignoring it would be a mistake, as happened in 2014. This inclusion is essential. Second, Ukrainian artists, when exhibiting abroad, have a unique ability to communicate their identity and the realities of life in Ukraine. Their work keeps global attention on Ukraine, reminding the world of the ongoing struggle, and highlighting the importance of continued support. Artists speak the universal language of culture, and this gives them a powerful platform to sustain empathy and awareness for Ukraine.