An interactive exhibition titled “Embroidered With Pain” is currently on display at the ArtReach Space within the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts in Arizona. The exhibition shares the stories of Ukrainian women who survived sexual violence committed by Russian occupiers during the war.
This was reported by the One Health and Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation.
“It’s a powerful exhibition that demonstrates the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. I am confident that those responsible will be held accountable for their war crimes,” shared visitor Cindy Brower.
According to One Health, the exhibition is hosted by the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts—a leading arts center known for its educational and socially significant artistic initiatives. It features innovative exhibitions that highlight global issues and foster social dialogue through art. Now, among those is the story of Ukraine’s unbroken women.
“Embroidered With Pain” was created by the One Health agency as part of the initiative “Women’s Leadership: Toward the Recovery of Ukraine,” supported by the Government of the United Kingdom and implemented by Pact Ukraine: building the world of equal opportunities.
The project was brought to life by a team of psychologists, ethnographers, artists, and embroidery masters. At its core are five fictional—but based on real testimonies—stories, embodied in symbolic patterns embroidered on traditional Ukrainian ritual towels (rushnyky).
It is noted that the original towels remain in Ukraine, while their reproductions are currently touring the United States. The Scottsdale exhibition will run until August 3 and marks the first appearance of the Ukrainian project as part of the Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation program. It was made possible through the support of the volunteer initiative Cactus and Tryzub and the Ukrainian American Society of Tucson, Arizona.
“The exhibition amplifies the voices of those who suffered violence during the Russian occupation. It is a reminder: you are not alone, and healing is possible,” said visitor Katrina Schaffner.
According to the organizers, the towel in “Embroidered With Pain” symbolizes a survivor’s journey—from the moment of trauma, through seeking help, to the beginning of healing. Through traditional embroidery, the exhibition not only honors traumatic experiences but also calls for solidarity and remembrance, while preserving the dignity of survivors.
“Each towel is a testament to resilience. And every visitor helps amplify the voices of those who have yet to speak out,” the statement emphasizes.
As noted by the campaign participants, the exhibition is part of a national U.S. tour called “Embroidered With Pain” aimed at informing the world about war crimes of sexual violence in Ukraine, while providing support and hope for healing to those affected.
“Our goal was to tell the truth—gently, without retraumatizing, but powerfully and sincerely. So that those who suffered, and those still silent, know—they are not alone,” the organizers concluded.
The exhibition can also be visited virtually from anywhere in the world. Senator Grassley’s he project and its stories can be found on the information platform “Dali Ye”.
Photo: Olena Tanchyk, Alona’s Elegant Violin, One Health
Author: Inna Mikhno