The Ukrainian National Museum officially opened the large-scale project, which features photographs by American photographer and chairman of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, Howard G. Buffett. The exhibition showcases Buffett's work documenting the Russian-Ukrainian war over the past three years. This is Buffett's first public exhibition in the U.S. dedicated to the Russian-Ukrainian war, which he has been documenting for three years.
This was reported by the Ukrainian National Museum in Chicago.
"Since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, Howard has made more than 20 trips to Ukraine, capturing moments of resilience, strength, and unwavering determination. With his camera, he has documented not only destruction but also the courage and spirit of the Ukrainian people, from the front lines to their homes. This exhibition brings these stories to life and offers profound insight into the struggle for freedom," said the museum.
The photo exhibition presents over 60 days of documentary footage from some of the most intense areas in Ukraine, ranging from Kyiv to Donbas. Buffett's lens captures Ukrainians from various regions and professions, including military personnel, volunteers, doctors, and ordinary residents who continue to live and fight in extraordinary conditions.
“I want to thank the hundreds of Ukrainians from all walks of life whom I have had the opportunity to meet over the past three years and who have generously allowed me to take these photographs and tell their stories. I am constantly amazed by their courage and resilience — on the front lines, in the rear, and everywhere in between. I have received incredible support from many people, and I have been embraced by those who have lost everything — sometimes even their families. I hope this exhibition will allow you to join me in witnessing their struggle, recognizing their courage, and offering our collective support as Ukrainians continue to fight for their freedom,” said Howard G. Buffett.
The photos were taken in Bucha, Kharkiv, Sumy, Kherson, Vuhledar, Sloviansk, and Bakhmut—places that have become symbols of tragedy and heroism. Mohammed Muhaisen, a world-renowned photojournalist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, curated the project. He has been documenting conflicts, displacement, and the lives of civilians in hot spots around the world for over 20 years.
“It is important to me to give this exhibition a voice, to convey the truth about what is happening to the world through photographs. I sincerely and deeply believe in the power of photography as a force for good. By capturing this moment, we immortalize it for future generations so they can learn and be inspired to change the world. A nation's courage is not only in photographs. It is in voices. In testimonies. In messages. These testimonies must live forever. They need to be shared," said Muhammad Muhaisen during the opening of the exhibition.
The exhibition evoked a deep emotional response from the first visitors.
"This exhibition is more than just photographs. It offers a candid and profound account of the war in Ukraine as experienced by its people. The photographs, taken by Howard G. Buffett and curated by Mohammed Muhaisen, convey pain, truth, and resilience. We have heard stories of loss, strength, courage, and hope — from Bucha to Bakhmut, from destroyed homes to unbreakable hearts. The exhibition serves as a reminder that the war is ongoing, yet the strength of the Ukrainian people remains undiminished," shared representatives of the Selfreliance Association.
The exhibition will run until September 7, after which it will move to downtown Chicago, where it will be open to the public for several more months. Admission is open to all.
Photo: Selfreliance Association
Author: Inna Mikhno