Ukrainian city of Cherkasy opens photo exhibition dedicated to soldiers with amputations
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
Personal stories of resilience captured in photographs: In the Cherkasy Art Museum, an exhibition under the media project "Unbroken" by the online publication "18000" showcased 16 photos and ten stories of defenders from the Cherkasy region who suffered injuries resulting in amputation.
The project was realized in partnership with photographer Ihor Yefimov, as the event organizer and journalist Iryna Maliukova reported to Suspilne.
What's the problem?
Ukrainian cities see more and more heroes who returned from war with severe injuries. The issue of creating an inclusive environment and supporting fighters and their families becomes more urgent.
"This project is a long-term effort," said photographer Ihor Yefimov. "The real result will be when our citizens don't look away from people with prosthetics but, on the contrary, show empathy and say 'thank you.' We need to learn to say this simple word. Our society is often closed, and it's hard for us to offer help. It's more about shame than fear or shyness. So, it's this shame that we need to overcome."
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
What's the solution?
Ten unbroken soldiers from Cherkasy became the heroes of the project by renowned photographer Ihor Yefimov and journalists from "18000: Cherkasy News." The photo exhibition was presented at the regional art museum.
According to Iryna, each text and photo were crafted to make society reflect on the needs of disabled veterans.
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
The exhibition featured 19 of Ihor Yefimov's most emotional and powerful photos among hundreds taken as part of the project.
"These are primarily the photos that evoked emotions from the project team and heroes. We are grateful to the fighters who participated in this project because exposing their physical and emotional scars wasn't easy. We highlighted the story of each one. They are all different: some no longer want to fight and plan to pursue other things; some wish to return to the military but are legally restricted. Additionally, we tried to shed light on the issues veterans face, make them visible, and draw attention to them," said the project's author, Iryna Maliukova.
How does it work?
According to photographer Ihor Yefimov, this is not just a photo exhibition but something broader: "It's a media project with ten major articles and significant texts; texts are crucial here. I believe my photos have strengthened these powerful texts."
Journalist Irina Maliukova added that she wants people to think about veterans with amputations every day: "I really want people to think about our veterans with amputations not only when political lists are compiled before elections or when creating some beautiful picture. I really want people to think about them every day."
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
Ms. Iryna added that every veteran's story needs to be made visible.
Serhii Priadka, a veteran and a winner of the "Unconquered Games," is one of those for whom the story was created.
"Society is becoming indifferent to war again, and it's psychologically very difficult. People often don't understand the scale of this war. Everyone must work for victory," he said.
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
Cherkasy resident Vera Shelest attended the exhibition. She emphasized the importance of seeing how war is reflected through art. She believes it's something that needs to be known and explored.
Veteran Vitalii Motsny, also a project hero, shared that people need to understand that there will be more and more veterans with injuries despite the trauma.
"Despite the injuries, we continue to serve, some in the military, some in other ways for the state. So, it's good that such projects exist, and many people will learn about it," he said.
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
The exhibition and a subsequent charity auction, organized by Cherkasy volunteer Viktoria Khamaza and "18000: Cherkasy News," concluded with a significant fundraising effort for the needs of the Armed Forces. The Cherkasy Regional Military Administration Chief, Ihor Taburets, provided lots for the auction. Thanks to this effort, over ₴3 million was raised for the needs of the Defense Forces.
Photo: Suspilne Cherkasy
The funds will be directed toward acquiring drones and medical evacuation vehicles.
The photo exhibition will continue until the end of the year. Those interested can explore the photo portraits of defenders and read the accompanying stories or watch video stories about each hero. All stories can be found here.
As previously reported, the job search portal Work.ua developed a checklist to assess how willing companies are to hire veterans.
Moreover, in Rivne, a presentation of the mobile app Trenvet UA took place, aiding veterans and servicemen in getting free sports rehabilitation.
