Ukrainian Artist Adorns Kyiv High-Rises with Images of Fallen Soldiers
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Loading... - Pauline Roussel
- 24 Oct 2024
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In a tribute to the sacrifices made by Ukrainian soldiers, artist Eugene Gladenko has transformed the skyline of Kyiv with vibrant murals depicting fallen troops. Among these heartfelt creations is a striking image of Maksym, a 23-year-old former boxer and the son of Liudmyla Bordus, who lost his life in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Liudmyla Bordus finds solace in the mural of her son, which is painted on the side of her apartment building. "I can feel him every day, every time I pass him here," she shared, gently touching the spray-painted likeness. "I greet him in the morning and in the evening, always." This connection to her son, who was killed by a tank shell in southeastern Ukraine last June, serves as a daily reminder of his bravery and the sacrifices made by countless soldiers.
Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, Ukrainians have sought various ways to honor their fallen heroes. The streets of Kyiv are adorned with billboards, plaques, and memorials that commemorate soldiers who have fought and died for their country. Gladenko, 31, has taken it upon himself to create these murals as a means of providing comfort to grieving families. Many of his works are commissioned by relatives or friends of the deceased, each mural telling a unique story of heroism and sacrifice.
"Every story ... is a story of a hero, an example for their entire district or neighborhood," Gladenko explained. His own motivation stems from a deep love for his country and a desire to support those who have lost loved ones in the conflict.
For Bordus, the mural of Maksym is a bittersweet reminder of her son's sacrifice. While it evokes pain, it also serves as a powerful symbol of the courage displayed by Ukrainian soldiers. "It feels as if an angel is looking at you from above," she reflected, highlighting the duality of grief and pride that many families experience.
Eugene Gladenko's murals are more than just art; they are a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity. As Kyiv's skyline becomes a canvas for remembrance, these images serve to honor the fallen and provide comfort to those left behind, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices are never forgotten.
