An exhibition by Ukrainian artist Mykola Zhuravel, who works in the unique levkas technique, is currently on view at Ukraine House in Washington. During the opening, the artist spoke with visitors in person, shared the story of his creative journey, and later led a workshop introducing guests to an ancient Ukrainian artistic tradition through a contemporary interpretation.
This was reported by Ukraine House.
The exhibition features works by Mykola Zhuravel created using levkas, a traditional ground that was used for centuries in Eastern Christian icon painting to prepare wooden panels. The artist has reinterpreted this historic method, developing his own contemporary style that combines Ukrainian cultural heritage with his distinctive artistic vision.
According to the organizers, the works, created in warm natural tones with characteristic honey-inspired motifs, establish a unique atmosphere and invite viewers to immerse themselves deeply in the world of Ukrainian art.
During the “Meet the Artist Night,” visitors had the opportunity to speak with the artist in person. Mykola Zhuravel discussed his creative journey and sources of inspiration, as well as how the full-scale war and his relocation to Canada have influenced his life and art.
Oksana Markarova, Chair of the Ukraine House Board and Advisor to the President of Ukraine on Reconstruction and Investment, delivered welcoming remarks to the guests. She emphasized the importance of promoting Ukrainian culture around the world and the role of art as an instrument of cultural diplomacy.
The organizers expressed special gratitude to the exhibition’s curator, Alex Demko, who worked on creating the exhibition and helped introduce the artist’s work to a broad international audience.
Among the distinguished guests at the opening were Portugal’s Ambassador to the United States Francisco Duarte Lopes, Swiss Ambassador Ralf Heckner, Latvian Chargé d’Affaires Jānis Beķeris, Estonian Chargé d’Affaires Inza Bauden, as well as representatives of the Embassy of Moldova Tatiana Meșter-Balan and Cristina Ceban.
Following the exhibition opening, Mykola Zhuravel led a workshop during which participants learned about the history of the levkas technique, explored the materials and tools involved, and created their own artworks under the artist’s guidance.
The artist donated one of the works created during the workshop to Ukraine House, where it will become part of the institution’s art collection.
The organizers also thanked Oleksandra Sienik for coordinating the event and Alex Demko for providing technical support and assisting with its organization.
Ukraine House noted that Mykola Zhuravel’s exhibition demonstrates how an ancient Ukrainian artistic tradition can acquire a contemporary voice, combining centuries-old cultural heritage with current artistic practices and revealing the depth of Ukrainian identity to an international audience.
Mykola Zhuravel’s exhibition will remain on view at Ukraine House through August 31, and the organizers invite everyone to visit the exhibition and discover the unique world of contemporary Ukrainian levkas.
Photo: Ukraine House
Author: Inna Mikhno