Just recently, "Diamond Jam" opened its doors in the heart of Soho, featuring a dazzling art exhibition that highlights Ukraine's most exceptional contemporary artists. This significant occasion marks the grand launch of "The First Ukrainian Gallery US," a bold project committed to introducing Ukrainian art to New York City and firmly establishing its presence in the metropolis.
This gallery showcases the remarkable creations of Ukrainian artists hailing from various regions like Kharkiv, Odessa, Rivne, Donetsk, Dnipro, and Kyiv. Some of these artists have experienced the hardships of war, and their artworks play a crucial role in promoting Ukrainian culture on the global stage while nurturing Ukraine's creative potential. It's worth noting that 100% of the proceeds from the sale of these artworks will be dedicated to supporting these talented artists, advancing the gallery's projects, and contributing to the reconstruction of a children's hospital in Lviv, Western Ukraine.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance was the well-known actor Rory Culkin, one of the Culkin brothers ("Home Alone") Rory made his mark in acclaimed movies like "Black Mirror," "Scream," and "Lords of Chaos." Accompanying him was his girlfriend, cinematographer Katelin Arizmendi, recognized for her collaborations with artists like Doja Cat and 30 Seconds to Mars, as well as her work on the series "Succession."
The event was graced by the presence of Ukrainian director Maryna Er Horbach, celebrated for her film "Klondike," along with director Tetiana Khodakivska, actress and UNICEF partner Sia Rovinska, "Bachelor" finalist Oleksandra Mudra, Miss Universe UkraineAnna Zaiachkivska, a prominent blogger Nadine Medvedchuk, supermodel Taras Romanov, celebrity manager Olga Samofalova, Consul of Ukraine in New York Natalia Musienko, cultural activist Darya Kolomiets, CEO of Razom for Ukraine Dora Chomiak, Ola Rondyak, a Ukrainian-American artist, and many others.
“The driving force behind this project has always been to support artists, especially during these challenging times. This initiative collaborates with over 30 artists, some of whom are refugees striving to build new lives in various European countries. For instance, Tata Kolesnyk from Kharkiv is raising her two children in a small town near Cologne. Inna Pedan, also from Kharkiv, lost her home due to rocket shells and found refuge in Paris. Kostyantyn Lyzogub from Kharkiv joined the self-defense efforts from the war's outset and now serves in the Armed Forces. However, it's essential to remember that artists who remain in Ukraine also require support, as the proceeds from their artwork sales are often their sole means of survival, - Maria Manuylenko, the curator of this project, emphasized this aspect.
Since the full-scale invasion began, we have organized ten exhibitions in the United States alone. Through these initiatives, nearly $500 000 have been collected to aid Ukraine”.
Photo: Dinara Khairova
