National Pavilion of Ukraine for the 60th Venice Biennale showcases a unique map highlighting bomb shelters, shedding light on the fragility of peace.
The National Pavilion of Ukraine for the 60th Venice Biennale has unveiled a powerful and unconventional initiative: the Bomb Shelter Map of Venice. This thought-provoking project opposes the idyllic canals and piazzas of Venice with a map highlighting locations that could serve as bomb shelters, forcing visitors to confront the stark reality of war and the ever-present threat to peace.
The map serves as a stark contrast to the idyllic setting of the Biennale. Visitors who expect romantic strolls through Venice are now confronted with the sobering reminder that even the most beautiful places can be forced to consider the unthinkable.
When I saw the map, it sent shivers down my spine,
said Mario, a tourist in Venice.
Even though Venice is far from the war in Ukraine, this project makes you realize how quickly things can change. It’s a chilling reminder that the peace we take for granted can be so fragile. I can’t imagine it being a reality for someone.
The idea of this actionism was developed by Ukrainian creative agency Bickerstaff.101.
As Veronika Selega, CEO of agency, underscored,
Every artist is our inspiration. They represent contemporary Ukraine so vividly that we are in love with this project. Therefore, we are honored to do our work for them, to tell the world about both contemporary Ukrainian art and once again have a reason (always have a reason) to remind the world about the bloody full-scale war in Ukraine
The Bomb Shelter Map is an addition to the Pavilion’s broader theme, “Net Making”, which explores the importance of unity and collective action during difficult times. Alongside the map, various exhibits in the Ukrainian Pavilion showcase the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people.
Inside, visitors can experience three art projects:
A documentary film by Daniil Revkovskyi and Andrii Rachynskyi about the civilian experience of the Russian invasion.
An artwork by Katya Buchatska created with neurodivergent artists, exploring the use of clichés during wartime.
A video series by Andrii Dostliev and Lia Dostlieva that challenges stereotypes about Ukrainian refugees.
About the National Pavilion of Ukraine for the 60th Venice Biennale:
The National Pavilion of Ukraine for the 60th Venice Biennale showcases a diverse range of exhibits under the theme “Net Making.” Through art, the Pavilion explores the concepts of unity, resilience, and collective action in the face of conflict. Each exhibit offers a unique perspective on the human experience during times of war and displacement, fostering dialogue and understanding among visitors. ukrainianpavilion.org
About the Artists:
Katya Buchatska: Explores language transformations amid life-threatening conditions, emphasizing the imperative to resist violence.
Oleksandr Burlaka: Embodies traditional Ukrainian textile weaving practices while reflecting on personal experiences and recent events.
Andrii Rachynskyi and Daniil Revkovskyi: Feature archival videos depicting the experiences of civilians before and during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, preserving authentic footage as evidence of crime.
Andrii Dostliev and Lia Dostlieva: Investigate stereotypes and expectations placed upon refugees in Europe, creating a safe space for Ukrainians to reclaim their agency and challenge stereotypes.
About Bickerstaff.101: Ukrainian independent creative agency, specializing in 720 creative campaigns, social activism, and identity design development.
