Sculpture Symbolizing Cultural Flight in Ukraine Unveiled
The sculpture «Origami Deer» was unveiled in Kyiv, serving as the central piece of the Ukrainian pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale, scheduled for 2026.
Recently, the cultural space «Kudryavka» hosted the presentation of the sculpture by Zhanna Kadyrova, which will be a key exhibit at the Venice Biennale. The artwork, evacuated from Pokrovsk in 2024, is now embarking on an artistic tour across Ukrainian cities before its international premiere.
During the event, the sculpture was displayed outdoors on a truck that served as a temporary stage.
Zhanna Kadyrova commented: «This project is not just a sculpture; it is a metaphor for culture that is forced to flee. Just as people leave their homes, so does the „Origami Deer“ embark on a journey. It may seem absurd for a sculpture to travel, but that’s how it „lives“ now. Most importantly, I want to show that in Ukraine, despite the war, life continues. We keep creating, celebrating, and sharing. This project is proof that art does not stop.»
The artist recalled creating the sculpture in 2019 for Pokrovsk. After the full-scale invasion began, it was evacuated from the frontline area, and now it begins a new journey from Ukrainian cities to Venice.
Kadyrova expressed hope that this sculpture, which belongs to the community of Pokrovsk, will be able to return home after the war ends.
During the event, attendees had the opportunity to interact with the artist, view the documentary film «IDPs» about the evacuation of the sculpture, and participate in the filming process for its continuation.
The musical program was provided by residents of the AHO, BRUKXT, and KUTT locations.
Before the international premiere, «Deer» will be exhibited in several Ukrainian cities — Kyiv, Yasinia, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Lviv.
The Venice Biennale, one of the most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions, will run from May 9 to November 22, 2026.
The Ukrainian pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale will present the project «Security Guarantees» — a solo exhibition by artist Zhanna Kadyrova. The exhibition addresses the theme of unmet international promises, particularly those made to Ukraine in exchange for its renunciation of nuclear arms. Through art, it raises questions about the price of security and trust in a global context.
The centerpiece of the exhibition will be the sculpture «Origami Deer», evacuated from frontline Pokrovsk in 2024. The exhibition will also include archival documents related to the Budapest Memorandum and the film «IDPs», which explores the experiences of internally displaced persons.
