Ukrainian refugees living in Orkney have shared their thoughts and art work in a new exhibition in the Pier Arts Centre Stromness.

The exhibition is on from 13 – 23 June as part of Refugee week.

After fleeing the devastation of war in their homeland, eight Ukrainian refugees resettling in Orkney took up the chance to embark on a creative journey of healing and self-expression, with the help of Nataliia Kuzmina, Project Manager (Resettlement Schemes) for Orkney Islands Council.

Nataliia Kuzmina explained:

 “As part of social support we’ve held regular art sessions over the past year which have provided not only an outlet for creativity but also a space to process trauma, find connection, and rebuild a sense of belonging.

“This exhibition brings together some of those artworks and personal stories, reflecting moments of resilience and growth amidst adversity.

“Each artwork or written piece marks a significant milestone – whether it’s the courage of picking up a paintbrush for the first time, speaking a new language, or reconnecting with a formerly distant sense of home.

“Other pieces reflect on grief, memories of a lost life, and the quiet victories of making a new home in an unfamiliar place.”

Isla Holloway, Pier Arts Centre’s Marketing and Customer Services Manager, said:

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to show these very thoughtful works and texts by such an inspiring group of brave women.

“Back in 2019, we hosted a Ukrainian artist through the British Council’s SWAP residency programme. Oleksandra Kadzevych from Odesa spent a month in Orkney, and we are pleased to have acquired some of her work for our Collection.

“It’s lovely to support this creative group by displaying their artworks and sharing their stories.”

Gwenda Shearer, Chair of OIC’s Education and Leisure Committee said:

“Through this exhibition we’re all invited to step into the lived experiences of those who have been forced to rebuild their lives in the wake of war.

“Each milestone reflected in the art and stories is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of loss and uncertainty – and to the determination of the Orkney community and the Council to help these refugees find peace and happiness in their new home.”

Community as a Superpower #RefugeeWeek

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