Exhibition by Lviv Student Artist on War in Ukraine Opens at Council of Europe

In Strasbourg, within the premises of the Council of Europe, an exhibition by Lviv artist Artur Kotyka titled 'When the Sky is Silent' was opened. This exhibition not only draws attention to the theme of war but also raises questions about the silence that is, in fact, a reflection of the profound experiences of Ukrainians living under the conditions of a full-scale conflict. As noted by the Lviv Regional Military Administration, this event has become yet another way to convey the truth about the ongoing war in Ukraine to the European community.

The exhibition by Artur Kotyka carries powerful symbolism, as its title suggests 'silence,' yet it is not merely the absence of sound. On the day of the opening, an important message was conveyed: may the sky be silent for the birds, so that it may become peaceful, devoid of sirens, rockets, and war. 'When the Sky is Silent' is not only about the desire for silence but also about the hope that the sky will cease to speak the language of explosions, which has become a reality for many Ukrainians.

Artur Kotyka is a young artist from Lviv, currently a student at the Faculty of International Relations at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv. His artistic journey began during the full-scale invasion, when art became a means for him to comprehend reality and internal changes. In his works, he strives to convey the emotions and experiences felt by Ukrainians in the context of war, forming a deep emotional connection with viewers that often surpasses any political statements.

Notably, the opening of the exhibition was attended by significant figures, including Mykola Tochitsky, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe, and Bjorn Berge, the First Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe. Their participation underscores the importance of this event for Ukraine and its international image. As stated by the Permanent Representation of Ukraine to the Council of Europe, holding the exhibition in this space is particularly meaningful, as discussions on human rights, democracy, and freedom take place here—values that Ukraine is currently defending in its struggle against Russian aggression.

This exhibition is part of a broader cultural strategy of Ukraine aimed at drawing the international community's attention to the situation in the country. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Ukrainians and the price of freedom they pay in their fight for independence. Specifically, in Kyiv, a new exhibition titled 'Target Destroyed: The Sky of Kyiv Region' was recently opened at the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II, further emphasizing the importance of cultural representation of wartime events.

Thus, Artur Kotyka's exhibition at the Council of Europe is not merely an artistic project but also an important step towards raising awareness about the war in Ukraine and its consequences for society. It is yet another way that Ukraine seeks to convey the truth about its struggle and hope for a peaceful future to the world.