Installation dedicated to Azovstal war prisoners unveiled in Kyiv

An installation symbolizing the resilience and faith of Ukrainian prisoners of war from Azovstal in Mariupol was opened on Sofia Square in Kyiv.

Фото: Анна Железняк

This is a sculpture, which symbolizes the faith and indomitability of our heroes. With this art, we want to show the relatives of the war prisoners that the world and Ukraine sympathize with them, worry and support them, explained Yevgenia, the organizer of the event.

Фото: Анна Железняк

The installation also reminds us that the world community is making efforts to bring Ukrainian soldiers home, she added.

This installation will stand until the last defender of Azovstal is released from captivity, the organizer emphasized.

She added that her brother also defended Azovstal and has been in Russian captivity for a year.

The sculpture's main idea is that on the one hand, the folded hands symbolize the heart, and on the other hand, they look tense, as usual, in a bound position.

Our sculpture has a certain meaning, because if you look at it from two sides, then on one side it has the shape of a heart, and on the other side it will be the tense fingers of people who stood until the last order. Now they have been in captivity for a year, that's why today this installation will be presented, said Nataliya Bashkatova, co-author of the installation.

Фото: Анна Железняк

The work was created by the sculptor Jan Bespalko. The team includes several more artists and is supported by the TVERDO concrete workshop at the Platform Art Factory.

After the opening of the sculpture, the Azov military had their say, reminding how important it is to fight for every prisoner and help their families. All those who died in the war were remembered with a moment of silence.

Фото: Анна Железняк

The Ukrainian band Kalush Orchestra recorded a video with words of support for the captured defenders of Azovstal and their families.

A mural dedicated to the captured defenders of Azovstal appeared in Kyiv. Also, an exhibition depicting 86 days of the terrific siege of Mariupol was opened in the capital.