Exhibition: Ukrainian intangible cultural heritage: crafts, practices and traditions

Fredrikstad, Norway.

Today, on October 28, Fredrikstad Museum has opened its doors for representative exhibition “Ukrainian ICH: crafts, practices and traditions”. This curator exhibition which will last to November 5, is filled with rich cultural history and traditions. The event is realized to commemorate 20th anniversary of UNESCO Convention 2003 and discovers the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding between nations. Deputy County Mayor of Viken, Camilla Eidsvold opened the exhibition. 

Joint efforts to safeguard the culture: The exhibition is a result of joint initiative of the Development Centre “Democracy through Culture”, National Union of Folk-Art Masters of Ukraine, Norwegian Crafts Institute and Fredrikstad Museum. These institutions with support of National Commission of Ukraine for UNESCO, Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine and the Charitable Foundation “MHP-Hromadi” strive to fill cultural gaps and to strengthen bilateral relations.  

Deep diving into Ukrainian intangible cultural heritage: From bright, complicated drawings of Petrykivka decorative painting testifying the rich artistic heritage of 18 c. Ukraine, to melodical sounds of kobza and wheel lyre reflecting the depth and the soul of Ukrainian music traditions.   

Workshops and knowledge transmission: Mistresses of pysankarstvo (eggs painting), masters of Petrykivka painting and kobza players from Petrykivka, Kyiv and Lviv Kobzar Tsekhs and National Union of Folk-Art Masters of Ukraine will conduct a set of masterclasses and workshops for museum visitors. Norwegian masters will share their knowledge and skills in music instruments making with Ukrainian masters in a separate section of the exhibition. This exchange promises to be a celebration of common knowledge pinnacle of which will be Kobzar concert.

Echo of the war in culture: The exhibition also represents artefacts of the impact of war on Ukrainian culture. The history takes place through photos, video and art pieces highlighting resistance, sacrifice and immortal spirit of the nation. The exhibition in Fredrikstad embracing the wide picture of Ukrainian heritage, serves as a beacon of hope and unity. It is the evidence of common traditions, understanding and fortitude in the face of difficulties.

Additional information is available by E-mail: demcult2017@gmail.com