UNESCO Exhibition on the Destruction of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage (Khanenko Museum, Kyiv)

‍

In particular, the Varvara and Bohdan Khanenko Museum resumed operations in May 2022, just two months after the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion. Prior to reopening, the museum took measures to safeguard its collection, removing valuable paintings, ancient icons, and graphics from the walls for protection. They initially opened the museum courtyard to visitors, and later, the main exhibition halls were made accessible.

We curated 82 compelling photographs and 24 artifacts from damaged locations, such as the Mykolaiv Drama Theater and Odesa Transfiguration Cathedral, crafting a detailed visual narrative of cultural loss. To further enhance the experience, we incorporated a slideshow with over 100 images and 3D scans of the damaged sites, creating a dynamic and immersive presentation.

We developed a visual concept and layout that thoughtfully placed photographs and artifacts within the museum space, ensuring a powerful visitor experience. Our approach was designed not only to illustrate the scale of destruction but also to celebrate the resilience and richness of Ukrainian culture, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation. This comprehensive approach fulfilled UNESCO's vision and goals for the project, offering a clear understanding of the cultural losses and the ongoing efforts to protect Ukrainian heritage.

‍