A new community exhibition charting the journeys of Ukrainian refugees is set to go on display next month at the Scottish Maritime Museum. Titled "Secret of Success," this exhibition will be the first of its kind at the museum's Linthouse building, opening on Thursday, October 3. Designed by members of the North Ayrshire Ukrainian community, it reflects the resilience and creativity of individuals displaced by the war.
The exhibition will kick off with a free celebration event from 6 PM to 8 PM on opening night. Developed with support from the museum team and Edinburgh-based artist Ellie Swanston, the month-long exhibition draws inspiration from the works of Jules Verne, exploring the themes of adventure and navigation through the lens of migration.
Through the expressive mediums of lino printing and storytelling, participants aged from eight to retirement create pieces expressing their journeys from Glasgow to Odesa, capturing personal encounters and the search for coherence within multicultural communities. Anna, one of the participants, emphasized the exhibition’s role in fostering connections, stating, "Being part of this project has made me feel grateful for the existence of such initiatives. We all need more contacts and friends here, and this exhibition helped me meet wonderful people."
Valentyna, another artist involved, noted the therapeutic benefits of their workshops. "It was fantastic art therapy," she said, "helping me cope with the enormous stress of moving for the seventh time within two years." The exhibition culminates with workshops, including two hours dedicated to lino printing on Saturday, October 5, making it accessible and engaging for the local community.
Jennifer Pless, community engagement officer at the museum, expressed excitement over collaborating with the Ukrainian community, stating, "It has been rewarding to bring their narratives to life at the museum, showcasing individual contributions reflective of their unique stories. Do the intrepid adventurers find their Secret of Success? Everyone needs to see the exhibition to find out!" The opening evening will also feature talks, including "Legends of the Sea," presented by exhibition contributor Yevgen Koziy, delving deep insights about Ukrainian culture and maritime traditions.
Meanwhile, the broader humanitarian crisis stemming from the Ukraine war remains pressing. Russian attacks on infrastructure have severely impacted civilian life, including strikes on hospitals and energy facilities. On Thursday, Russian forces targeted the geriatric center in Sumy, accounting for civilian casualties, with officials reporting one death and multiple injuries. President Zelensky condemned the attacks as another violation of humanitarian laws, stressing the necessity of international intervention and response.
According to recent updates, the Ukrainian power infrastructure has been battered, leading to anticipated power shortages this winter, with the International Energy Agency predicting potential shortfalls of about one-third of the peak demand. The attacks have drawn stern reactions from organizations and governments alike, as the European Union initiated plans to assist, including dismantling power plant functions to facilitate rebuilding efforts.
On the health front, efforts to maintain HIV prevention services continue amid war chaos. Ukraine faces the challenge of combatting one of the highest HIV rates in Europe, with around 245,000 people living with the condition. Organizations such as the Alliance for Public Health are implementing strategies to continue treatment and care, even with the backdrop of war disrupting healthcare systems. Mobile labs have been deployed to remote areas, providing testing and treatments necessary for vulnerable populations.
These mobile facilities resemble remnants of stability, as they maneuver through frontline territories to deliver healthcare amid the war, showcasing the relentless spirit of medical personnel striving under perilous conditions to address health crises.
Family life has also suffered significantly. A documentary titled "Idir Dhá Bhaile - ó Chív go Corcaigh" is set to reflect the struggles of one Ukrainian family trying to rebuild their lives after fleeing the conflict. The project highlights their emotional transition and challenges as they adapt to life outside their homeland. Director Sinéad Ingoldsby states, "Through sharing their story, we can glean insights about resilience and the communal support welcoming them when all seems lost on home soil." This intersection of art, community, and health sits at the heart of addressing the humanitarian fallout of the conflict, highlighting individual narratives shaped by collective adversity.
On another note, prominent figures such as Michael Douglas have recently visited Ukraine, drawing attention to the important need for global support toward overcoming challenges posed by the war. His visits not only stimulate awareness but also underline the necessity for continued humanitarian assistance, showcasing the courage of those who choose to stand with the Ukrainian populace during difficult times.
The culmination of these various threads offers not only community connections through art but also highlights the dire need for support during these challenging times faced by the Ukrainian people, emphasizing the impact of solidarity and shared human experiences wherever they may dwell.
