Davyd Chychkan / Давид Чичкан

2022

Drawing, 61,5 x 86,4 cm.
Materials: Watercolour on paper

Collection: Collection M HKA/ Flemish Community (Inv. no. BK009526).

In his creation of the imagery of a future Ukraine, Chychkan combines references to the historical past, and the clarity of propaganda images and slogans with the images of present-day Ukraine. Defenders for Real Ukraine and Ukraine of my Dream  is a portrait of two modern heroes. The first is a tactical medicine instructor and combat medic of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, member of the ООС (Joint Forces Operation), left-wing nationalist and feminist Anastasia Vinslavska. The second person is Yevhen Leshan: junior lieutenant in reserve, participant in the Russian-Ukrainian war during ATO (the Ukrainian government’s Anti-Terrorist Operation in the War in Donbas 2014-2018) and the adherent of progressive views. In this work, they stand under the four ribbons, symbolising Chychkan’s imaginary and alternative Ukraine of the future. Viniskalvka and Leshan themselves represent all the veterans and volunteers of the progressive leaning, who have been fighting for Ukraine. Not only do they defend the country, but also stand for equality and social justice.