In the three years since the full-scale invasion of Russia, over 200,000 Ukrainians have found refuge in Spain, one of the highest figures among EU countries. Arriving in a new country in search of safety, Ukrainians bring their vibrant culture, which is becoming increasingly visible globally.
Exhibition «Cultural Connections: Spain and Ukraine» in Valencia
On February 25, 2025, the National Museum of Ceramics and Arts Gonzalo Martí in Valencia opened the exhibition «Cultural Connections: Spain and Ukraine». The exhibition aims not only to introduce both nations to one another's culture but also to highlight their shared characteristics. The exhibition was curated by renowned Ukrainian interior designer Kateryna Churina and photographer and set designer Iryna Cheremisina.
«Due to the war, we were forced to move to Spain. As we began to explore this country, we noticed how similar the habits and everyday life of Spaniards and Ukrainians are. The cultural code manifests itself in seemingly simple daily things. This gave rise to the idea of the exhibition, which demonstrates the harmonious coexistence of Spanish and Ukrainian cultures,» said Kateryna Churina.
The exhibition consists of a series of stylized photographs illustrating traditional household items from Ukraine and Spain. These items accompany people in various moments of life: family celebrations, daily activities, moments of joy, and sorrow.
«The photos we created are inspired by classical still lifes and reveal the everyday life of both countries. Through our work, we want to introduce Spaniards to Ukrainian culture and inspire Ukrainians to explore Spanish traditions. Our project is also a way to thank the Spanish people for their warm welcome,» shared photographer Iryna Cheremisina.
In addition to photographs, the exhibition features over 60 items from family collections provided by Ukrainian families. Among them are embroidered Ukrainian aprons and towels from the mid-20th century, Kosiv painted ceramics, and pottery with Petrykivka painting, recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
There are also traditional Spanish household items — an antique iron, a botijo pitcher, a copper bed warmer, sheep shears, and other authentic objects. Each item is accompanied by stories from their owners about the significance of these objects in everyday life, as well as testimonies about the war, emigration, family memories, and traditions.
The exhibition «Cultural Connections: Spain and Ukraine» will be open in Valencia from February 25 to June 29, 2025. Venue: National Museum of Ceramics and Arts Gonzalo Martí. The curator of the exhibition is Svitlana Davidenko.
