The exhibition “Kherson
The Steppe Holds" has opened in Kyiv: memory, resilience and indomitability of the South A new unique exhibition project called "Kherson. The Steppe Holds" has been launched in the heart of Kyiv, in the Mystetskyi Arsenal, which once again reminds us of the importance of preserving the cultural memory, courage and indomitability of the Ukrainian South. This exhibition combines documents, photographs, archival materials and mystical images, creating a multi-layered image of the land, which has become a symbol of struggle, losses and the indomitable strength of the Ukrainian spirit. The event was initiated by director Roman Bondarchuk and cultural manager Darya Averchenko, who dedicated this exhibition to their native Kherson region - a region that underwent incredible trials during the Russian invasion. They sought to convey not only the historical aspect, but also the state of mind and inner strength of the inhabitants of this land. ZN.UA photojournalist Vasyl Artyushenko had the honor of visiting the exhibition, capturing key moments and images that characterize Southern Ukraine. A feature of the exhibition is its focus on early documents and footage from popular Ukrainian films shot in the region before the start of the full-scale war. Among the exhibits are materials from the films “Ukrainian Sheriffs”, “Editorial Office” and “Volcano”, which help not only to preserve historical memory, but also to imagine the possibilities of future revival and restoration. In addition, visitors can familiarize themselves with previously unpublished videos and unique archival photographs that preserve the living history of the Kherson region - a region that has undergone profound changes and heavy losses, but at the same time remains a source of strength and inspiration for Ukrainians. The exhibition space is divided into five separate halls, each of which presents different aspects of the history and culture of the region. In particular, a special place is occupied by the hall dedicated to the archive of the famous Kherson photojournalist Andriy Matrosov, who used his shots to reflect the lives of residents and the struggle in Southern Ukraine. Among the exhibits are also unique materials from the “War Archive” project, which documents Russia’s war crimes against Ukraine. This segment aims to preserve the memory of the victims and heroes, as well as to emphasize the importance of truthful coverage of the tragedies that occurred in the region. The authors of the exhibition emphasize that this project is not only about loss and destruction, but also about longevity, culture, and faith. It is very important, say the organizers, that the memory of the Kherson region be preserved and passed on from generation to generation, because it is history that shapes the future. They invite everyone to visit this multi-layered exhibition to see with their own eyes the strength and resilience of the region, to experience its losses, and at the same time to feel faith in restoration. “This is an exhibition about what we currently lack and what must return,” the organizers note. “It is about memory, struggle, love, and the desire to live on our land. We want to convey to everyone that even in the darkest times, the steppe holds, because in its depths the strength and faith of the Ukrainian people are encoded.” In conclusion, it is worth mentioning that another exhibition has already opened in Kyiv — “Occupied Heritage” — which is dedicated to the culture of the occupied territories of Ukraine, reminding us of another important page in our history and the joint struggle for freedom and independence.