Polly Chesnokova

27 September 2024 – 19 January 2025

This exhibition furthers the Ukrainian Museum’s decolonization efforts and positions prominent artists of the early 20th century in the Ukrainian spotlight. Alexander Archipenko, David Burliuk, Alexander Bohomazov, Maria Syniakova, Vasyl Yermylov, Alexis Gritchenko, and others will be presented in the context of Ukrainian art and culture’s development, innovations, and traditions, which for decades were suppressed and appropriated by Russian imperialism. Volia in Ukrainian translates to freedom and also denotes willpower and a longing for freedom. This concept encapsulated the avant-garde movements in Ukraine, which are breaking free from Russian narratives and falsehoods more than ever before. The show will be on view from 27 September to 19 January 2025, concurrently with Alexandra Exter: The Stage Is a World. 

27 September 2024 – 19 January 2025

UKR|RUS, a sculptural work by Molly Gochman, invites us to question the devastating human cost and destruction caused by aggressive imperialism, and to celebrate the resilience of Ukrainians, their rich cultural history, and the future that so many are fighting to defend. Taking the shape of the Ukraine-Russia border as it is defined by Ukraine and recognized by international law, the work draws parallels between physical and metaphorical boundaries, explores the complex dynamics that exist around borders, and provides a space to center and reflect upon the ongoing struggle of Ukraine and its people.

Constructed using an assemblage of reclaimed wood, rubble, and various types of ground surface materials including marble, UKR|RUS recognizes the scars of conflict while simultaneously suggesting the possibility of rebuilding and healing. In the wake of major geopolitical events and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Gochman’s sculptures serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the suffering of those caught in the crosshairs of imperialism. By positioning parts of the bench in historically Ukrainian communities across New York City, UKR|RUS will be paired with programming at cultural institutions and organizations that support and exemplify Ukrainian culture.

The installation is on display alongside the Alexandra Exter: The Stage Is a World and Volia: Ukrainian Modernism exhibitions.

21 June – 08 December 2024

This unique exhibition of current and historical maps of Ukraine offers visitors a rare opportunity to delve into the country’s complex and rich history. By juxtaposing modern maps with those from centuries past, the exhibition promotes a deeper understanding of how Ukraine’s borders, cities, and landscapes have evolved over time – for example, by tracing the changing political boundaries of Ukraine, from the 1600s to modern-day independence, and witnessing the impact of historical events such as wars, revolutions, and treaties on the country’s geographical makeup.

The exhibition also features maps of Ukraine that provide a glimpse into the country’s cultural and ethnic diversity. These maps highlight the distribution of various ethnic groups, languages, and religions within Ukraine’s borders, thereby shedding light on the country’s rich tapestry of identities. Additionally, it will be augmented with a variety of rare and contemporary books focusing on the iconography of maps, major cities, and historic locations within Ukraine.

The exhibition serves as a valuable learning tool, allowing visitors to connect with the country’s past and present in a visually engaging manner. The current and historical maps provide an important perspective on Ukraine’s geographical, political, and cultural landscape, inviting viewers to explore and appreciate the country’s complex history.