'Code of the Nation' celebrated history of Ukrainian costumes
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Sergiy Balan (Association of Ukraine in Republic of Ireland chairperson), Nataliya Sydrue, Elaine McManus and Jonas Krauklys at the launch.Image 2 of 5
Olana Zauk, Marlilia Raiboshtan and Kristina Yastrebova on Wednesday.Image 3 of 5
Irana Mina, Viktoria Maksychuk and Maryna Hordieiva at the photo exhibition.Image 4 of 5
Ivan Kopanatso and Andrew Gordiev at Westmeath County Council.Image 5 of 5
Serhii Pelykh and Nataliia Rafaielian at the launch event.A photography exhibition celebrating the rich symbolism and history of traditional Ukrainian costumes, or vyshyvankas, was held in the Atrium at Áras an Chontae.
The exhibition, Code of the Nation, features images taken by Kristina Yastrebova of Ukrainians based in Ireland wearing traditional costumes.
The costumes come from the private collection of Dublin-based refugee Maria Pashko, which she brought with her when she left the country following the Russian invasion. All funds raised at the exhibition will go towards purchasing ambulances to be used in Ukraine.
Speaking at the launch of the exhibition on Wednesday, Sergiy Balan, chairperson of the Association of Ukrainians in Ireland, explained why the exhibition was titled Code of the Nation.
“Traditional clothes were embroidered by women using a special technique, which symbolised happiness, health and well-being.
“The patterns on the sleeves determined the fate of a person and the clothes were usually made to mark important dates, such as the birth of a child or a wedding.
“All these costumes survived wars, genocide and the long-suffering history of our people.
They were taken out of the war and today they are preserved in Ireland. The owner of these costumes, Maria Pashko dreams of opening a museum in a free, peaceful Ukraine.
“We have a unique opportunity to show the world the treasure and diversity of our culture. The exhibition is an important step in the preservation of Ukrainian cultural heritage in the conditions of forced emigration.
“We are grateful to Ireland for supporting our families and preserving our culture.”