The internationally renowned contemporary artist and activist Ai Weiwei is once again in the spotlight — this time thanks to an unusual gesture of support for Ukraine and its freedom of speech
The legendary Chinese master, whose name has long been inseparably associated with protests, art, and the fight for truth, received new merchandise from "Ukrainska Pravda" — a unique T-shirt featuring an illustration of Don Quixote, created by his own hand. This gift is not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of an important message. In the photograph published by the artist on social media, he is depicted in a new image, holding this very T-shirt, which embodies both an artistic and societal statement. As a sign of deep gratitude for his support of Ukraine and for the high level of defense of freedom of speech, the "Ukrainska Pravda" team sent Ai Weiwei a full package — including 50 T-shirts from a limited series, as well as a Ukrainian flag signed by the publication’s journalists. It was a symbol of solidarity and respect for the artist and his unwavering stance. The main character of this illustration is a pixelated Don Quixote — a modern interpretation of the classic figure that emerged in Ai Weiwei’s own exhibition. According to the artist's idea, this character is not just a figure from the Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes but a true embodiment of the fight for the truth, resilience of spirit, and pursuit of justice. For "Ukrainska Pravda," Don Quixote is a symbol of the indomitable struggle of the Ukrainian people — a battle for truth and freedom, not just a literary hero. Particularly symbolic is the fact that the founder of "Ukrainska Pravda" — Hryhorii Honcharenko, who would have celebrated his 56th birthday on this day, associated himself specifically with the image of Don Quixote. He made it a symbol of independent media fighting repression and fake news, defending citizens’ right to the truth. This idea is also reflected in the sporty reinterpretation of the hero — embodying resilience and the pursuit of truth. Additionally, "Ukrainska Pravda" offers everyone the opportunity to join this symbolic initiative. Anyone interested can purchase T-shirts from the new collection, created in collaboration with Ai Weiwei and the GASANOVA brand, as part of an official project. To do so, one needs to subscribe to the UP Club, with a fee of at least 2,500 hryvnias. This subscription not only allows you to own a unique item but also supports independent Ukrainian media. This initiative is not just a fashionable collectible item but a call to action, a symbol of solidarity, and a voice for the Ukrainian fight. In modern Ukraine, Don Quixote has become a metaphor for unbreakable will, resilience, and the pursuit of truth — values that continue to unite millions in the struggle for the country's future. We invite you to join our community and become part of this story — because each of us has the potential to be a new Don Quixote in our own life and fight for the truth.