In the heart of Kyiv, near the Taras Shevchenko monument, a new sculpture has appeared — a five-meter tall bright yellow bust that replicates one of the poet's most striking portraits, symbolizing him as the 'sun of Ukraine'.
Recently, the installation titled 'The World Through Shevchenko's Eyes' was unveiled in Taras Shevchenko Park — a massive bust that captivates with its vivid color.
This sculpture mirrors a marble bust created in the late 19th century by the renowned sculptor Volodymyr Beklemishev, based on photographs of the Kobzar himself. Its vibrant yellow hue represents the 'light of Ukraine,' and the contemporary artistic concept was devised by Ukrainian artist Serhiy Zapadnia.
Inside the installation, interactive elements allow visitors to 'transport' themselves to Shevchenko monuments in various cities around the world, such as Washington, Paris, Buenos Aires, Beijing, Canberra, and many others. One of the lenses shows only darkness, serving as a reminder of the war that forces monuments to be concealed in protective structures, yet it simultaneously signifies hope that light will prevail.
The initiators believe this is not just an art object, but a powerful symbol of unity — a connection between Ukrainians who are far from their homeland and their native home. The installation 'The World Through Shevchenko's Eyes' allows a glimpse into 80 locations across 37 countries where monuments to the Kobzar are located, viewed through Shevchenko's perspective.
The project was created by the public organization Ukraine WOW and Visa in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. According to Minister Andriy Sybiga, Taras Shevchenko is not only a cultural phenomenon but also a record holder for the number of monuments worldwide: over 1100 on four continents. His image serves as a guiding light for millions of Ukrainians who have had to leave their homes due to war.
Visitors can not only see the world through Shevchenko's eyes but also hear his poetry performed by Bohdan Stupka, and take an interactive quiz about the poet's life, created in collaboration with Yuliya Shilenko, the chief curator of the National Museum of Taras Shevchenko.
The installation will be on display in the park until August 15, after which it will become part of the large Ukraine WOW exhibition opening on Independence Day.