Renowned Ukrainian artist Pavlo Makov has issued a passionate plea to his government, urging officials to place greater emphasis on cultural promotion as the country continues to endure the hardships of war. Makov, whose work has gained international acclaim, argues that art and culture are not mere luxuries but essential tools for maintaining national identity and morale during conflict.
The Power of Art in Wartime
Makov, best known for his thought-provoking installations, emphasised that cultural expression serves as a unifying force for Ukrainians. "Art is not just a reflection of our society—it is a weapon of resilience," he stated. "In times of war, culture becomes even more critical in preserving who we are."
A Call for Government Action
The artist criticised the current lack of structured support for cultural projects, calling for increased funding and policy initiatives. "We cannot afford to neglect our heritage," Makov insisted. "The government must recognise that culture is as vital as defence in this fight for our future."
His remarks come as Ukraine continues to face relentless attacks, with many cultural sites already damaged or destroyed. Makov’s own artwork, The Fountain of Exhaustion, was famously evacuated from Kharkiv to Venice for safekeeping.
International Support for Ukrainian Culture
Globally, Ukrainian artists have received widespread solidarity, with exhibitions and performances held worldwide to showcase the nation’s rich cultural legacy. Makov urged the Ukrainian government to capitalise on this momentum, proposing collaborations with international institutions to further amplify the country’s artistic voice.
"Our culture is our resistance," he declared. "It reminds the world—and ourselves—what we are fighting for."
